Step 02 / Supply Chain
The "Buy vs. Make" Decision:
Balancing Cost & Complexity
Just like constructing a large facility requires diverse materials, cup production requires a
steady stream of plastic sheets. You face a critical choice: Buy sheet
rolls or Extrude them yourself?
Buying rolls is easier for startups (lower initial investment). However, adding your own
Sheet Extruder Line can save 15-20% in material costs, significantly
increasing your profit margins in the long run.
Pro Tip:
If your cup depth exceeds 180mm, standard cam machines may not fit. You need a specialized "Deep
Draw" Servo model.
Strategy Q&A
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How much profit does an Extruder add?
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Buying sheet rolls typically costs 15-20% more than the raw granules. By extruding
yourself, you capture this margin. For a factory using 100 tons/month, this saves approx
$15,000 - $20,000 USD per month.
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Can I recycle the leftover scrap?
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Yes! This is the biggest advantage of having an extruder. You can crush the leftover
skeleton web and mix it (up to 30-50%) with new material, reducing your waste to nearly
zero.