A structured approach to the make-or-buy decision
If your business requires a steady supply of paper honeycomb core, you’re faced with two main options: You can buy honeycomb core from a specialist like Axxor, or you can invest in your own production line with a paper honeycomb core machine.
This classic make-or-buy dilemma shouldn’t be taken lightly. In this whitepaper, we outline the key factors to consider and provide a structured framework to help decision-makers align their choice with both the short- and long-term goals of the organization.
Choosing the right honeycomb core machine
What type of honeycomb core machine is best for your business? This decision goes beyond just equipment and cost. A block-making machine, for example, produces smooth honeycomb core in smaller batches, while continuous core machines are a better fit for high-volume production. In this whitepaper, you’ll learn about the pros and cons of different paper honeycomb core machines.
However, before exploring what type of machine best suits your needs, it’s essential to take a step back and consider whether producing in-house is the right choice at all.
Key considerations
In this whitepaper we discuss strategic factors that determine whether it’s smarter to invest in equipment or to outsource production — to keep your investment low and ensure consistent quality.
These considerations are placed within a structured framework based on the model by Cánez, Platts, and Probert (2000). We explore four key areas:
- Technology & Manufacturing Processes
- Cost
- Supply Chain & Logistics
- Support Systems
Understanding these factors will help you decide which option fits best with your strategy.
FAQ
Several manufacturers offer paper honeycomb core machines globally, ranging from compact block-making units to fully automated continuous core lines. Key criteria to evaluate include automation level, maximum core width, output capacity, after-sales support, and whether the supplier offers commissioning and operator training. That said, selecting a machine manufacturer is the second decision, not the first. Before comparing equipment suppliers, it is worth establishing whether in-house production is the right strategic choice at all. Capital investment, raw material sourcing, operator training, quality systems, and contingency planning for downtime all affect the real cost of ownership. Our make-or-buy framework helps you make that call before committing to equipment.
Sourcing from a specialist like Axxor lets you scale production without capital investment in core equipment, reduces hiring and training costs, and gives you access to consistently high-quality material without managing the associated support systems. Because Axxor ships honeycomb in unexpanded form, transport costs can be reduced by up to 90% compared to pre-expanded material. You also benefit from over 30 years of specialized production expertise without the need for internal R&D investment.
In-house production creates dependency on external paper suppliers, requiring careful assessment of supplier reliability and contingency planning for supply disruptions. You also need a clear plan for equipment breakdowns, unplanned downtime without a backup supply source can halt your entire downstream production. By contrast, sourcing from a specialist like Axxor shifts these risks to a supplier with established supply chain relationships and safety stock arrangements already in place.
Block making machines produce smooth cores in batches, which are then glued together for subsequent processes, suited to smaller runs and more flexible production. Continuous core machines are designed for large-scale output and vary from 2 to 14 paper reels, affecting capacity. Core widths typically range from 1,600 to 2,800mm. Integrated options combining core production with panel lamination in one step also exist, though non-integrated setups are often preferred for operational flexibility and risk management.
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Everything You Need to Know When Buying Paper Honeycomb Manufacturing Equipment.
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