The Production Process of Folding Knives: Precision, Innovation, Quality at Every Stage

Folding knives are marvels of engineering—compact, durable, and meticulously crafted for performance and reliability. At Shieldon, the production of a folding knife is not merely an assembly task, but a sophisticated process that interweaves advanced technology, rigorous quality controls, and a deep respect for client requirements and industry standards. This in-depth guide explores every facet of the folding knife production journey, from raw material processing to final assembly, with particular emphasis on transparency, compliance, and client-focused customization.

1. Blade Production: Where Strength and Sharpness Begin

The blade is the soul of a folding knife, and its journey from raw steel plate to razor-sharp edge is a masterclass in metallurgical science and mechanical precision.

Wire Cutting / Laser Cutting: Precision from the Start

The process initiates with multi-layer welding, ensuring optimal adhesion. Bead hole positions must be meticulously aligned, as even a minor deviation can affect the blade’s long-term durability and opening mechanism.

Raw steel sheets are then cut according to precise nesting diagrams using state-of-the-art IPG fiber laser cutting machines, achieving tolerances within ±0.05mm. Nitrogen protection is employed throughout this stage, effectively preventing oxidation and ensuring the integrity of the blade’s cutting surfaces.

Control de calidad: After cutting, random sampling is performed to inspect steel grain size, following ASTM E112. This step is essential to detect and eliminate any internal material defects that could compromise the blade’s structural performance.

Annealing: Optimizing Metallurgical Properties

Annealing processes vary with steel type:

High-carbon steel (e.g., D2): Subjected to vacuum annealing at 780°C, reducing hardness to below HRC20 for ease of subsequent machining.
Stainless steel (e.g., 440C): Controlled atmosphere annealing at 850°C prevents surface decarburization and maintains material integrity.

Advanced temperature control equipment is used, and process data is logged to guarantee uniformity and allow for batch traceability.

Straightening: Achieving Perfect Flatness

Four-hand rings are adjusted based on billet thickness, taking care to follow equipment procedures. Fully automatic hydraulic straightening machines (tolerance ±0.02mm) are utilized, replacing traditional manual adjustments for greater consistency and efficiency.

All straightening data is digitally recorded to enable process analysis and traceability in the event of downstream quality concerns.

Deburring: Preparing for Finishing

Mechanized deburring removes sharp burrs from cut edges, increasing worker safety and ensuring smooth transitions for the next production steps.

Surface Grinding: Achieving Dimensional Consistency

Double-sided surface grinding machines with #80 grit wheels are deployed to achieve parallelism on both blade faces, maintaining a parallelism of ≤0.03mm. Regular machine checks and wheel wear monitoring are enforced to guarantee ongoing consistency.

CNC Machining of Bearing Slots & Chamfering of Pivot Holes

Critical features such as bearing slots and pivot holes are CNC-machined and chamfered (typically C0.5 on both sides) using 5-axis machines in a single setup, reaching tolerances of ±0.01mm. First-article and in-process inspections are performed to maintain precision and avoid deviations that could affect the knife’s action.

Pivot Hole Honing

Sunnen honing machines are used to achieve the specified surface roughness (Ra ≤ 0.4μm). Coolant temperature is closely monitored to prevent thermal distortion and maintain surface integrity.

CNC Edge Milling and Tempering

Edge milling is performed per nesting diagrams, followed by a low-temperature tempering process at 200°C for 2 hours to relieve internal stress. Post-tempering, stress tests are conducted to verify blade stability and prevent subsequent warping.

Degreasing and Bundling

Ultrasonic cleaning technology is employed post-machining to remove residual oils. Blades are then bundled in groups of ten using eco-friendly materials, demonstrating Shieldon’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Heat Treatment: Achieving Peak Performance

Blades undergo vacuum heat treatment—quenching followed by triple tempering—to achieve target hardness and toughness. For D2 steel, the process involves quenching at 1040°C with oil cooling and tempering at 520°C three times.

Random hardness testing (Rockwell) and metallographic analysis (martensite morphology per ASTM E3) are conducted post-treatment. Comprehensive data logging ensures process traceability and facilitates ongoing improvement.

Oxide Layer Removal, Precise Milling, and Bevel Polishing

Mechanized polishing and surface grinding remove oxide layers and prepare the blade for finishing, maintaining uniform thickness (typically ~0.3mm at the edge). Automated milling and polishing systems ensure consistent results, while gloss meters are used during bevel polishing to confirm finish quality.

Finishing Touches

Final surface treatments are applied per client contract—ranging from PVD coatings to corrosion-resistant finishes. Adhesion is tested (ISO 2409 cross-cut), and corrosion resistance verified through standardized testing, guaranteeing long-term reliability in varied environments.

Lock Face Grinding

Manual lock face grinding is conducted as needed based on knife assembly fit, with molds or templates used to enhance consistency and reduce manual error.

Edge Sharpening and Deburring (Post-Assembly)

The sharpened edge is ground to an exact angle (15–20° per side, tolerance ±0.5°) using laser measuring instruments. Post-sharpening, automated deburring with leather wheels ensures a clean, burr-free edge, enhancing both performance and user safety.

Optional: Steel Inspection

For projects requiring extra validation, Shieldon offers spectrometer-based steel composition analysis and periodic internal/external audits, guaranteeing conformity to AISI and international standards.

2. Knife Handle: Engineered for Comfort, Strength, and Style

The handle of a folding knife must be ergonomic, robust, and aesthetically pleasing. Shieldon’s handle manufacturing processes accommodate both metal (titanium, aluminum, steel) and advanced composite (G10, Micarta, carbon fiber) materials, each tailored for optimal performance.

Metal Handle Manufacture

Drilling and Stamping

Multi-layer welding ensures strength when joining components. All welds are inspected for quality before drilling or stamping. Automated pressing systems, capable of exerting 10–1,000+ tons of force, produce parts at a rate of 20–60 per minute with ±0.01mm tolerance, minimizing waste and ensuring material efficiency.

Wire Cutting / Laser Cutting

For metals such as titanium, fiber laser cutting (±0.05mm) minimizes heat-affected zones, preserving alloy integrity. Online monitoring systems maintain cut quality, and process data is stored for traceability.

Straightening and Dimensional Inspection

Hydraulic straightening machines with laser leveling devices ensure flatness. Post-process vibration aging treatment eliminates internal stresses. All key dimensions, especially pivot holes, are verified using Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), with data recorded for quality tracking.

CNC Milling, Drilling, Chamfering, and Thread Tapping

Precision CNC (5-axis) machines execute complex 3D shapes, holes, and chamfers (±0.02mm). Drilling combines multiple operations (drill, ream, chamfer) for efficiency. Thread tapping uses roll taps and spiral taps to boost thread strength and longevity, with ISO 724 Go/No-Go gauges for verification.

Degreasing, Lockbar Cutting, and Detent Hole Drilling

Ultrasonic degreasing preserves surface quality before further machining. For lockbars, slow-wire EDM (±0.005mm) prevents micro-cracking in titanium. Detent holes are pre-machined before heat treatment and honed to size afterward, ensuring perfect tolerance.

Finishing

Surface treatments may include sandblasting, anodizing, PVD, or custom laser texturing—selected to match client requirements and ensure both durability and style. Eco-compliance is emphasized, with alkaline degreasers replacing solvents, and all treatment data is logged for oversight.

Composite (Sheet Material) Handle Manufacture

Material Preparation

G10, Micarta, PEI, and carbon fiber materials are pre-baked (80°C, 4 hours) to prevent delamination. Ultrasonic flaw detection and infrared moisture checks guarantee material integrity before machining.

CNC Machining and Inspection

5-axis machining (e.g., Hurco) shapes ergonomic grips and textures, with cryogenic cooling to prevent resin softening. Automated robotic grinding and deburring ensure consistent finishes and avoid manual variability. Each stage is followed by interlaminar shear strength testing and damp-heat cycling for quality assurance.

Drilling, Chamfering, and Surface Enhancements

Drilling is followed by coaxiality checks. Chamfering ensures no sharp edges. Surface treatments can include laser deep etching, silicone inlays, epoxy coatings, or antibacterial sprays, tailored for enhanced grip, appearance, or hygiene.

3. Backspacer: Structural Integrity and Aesthetic Cohesion

The backspacer provides structural support to the knife handle and often contributes to the overall design language of the product. Shieldon’s backspacer production process is rigorous, combining high-precision machining with advanced finishing techniques.

Metal Backspacer Production

Stamping and Welding

Multi-layer welding is employed to ensure the structural integrity of the backspacer, especially when composed of titanium, aluminum, or stainless steel. Prior to welding, weld points undergo strict inspection to guarantee firmness and alignment.

Wire Cutting / Fiber Laser Cutting

Metal plates are cut according to nesting diagrams with IPG fiber laser cutters, offering an accuracy of ±0.05mm. This method is preferred for titanium alloys and stainless steels, as it minimizes thermal deformation and oxidation, producing a clean cut surface with a roughness Ra ≤ 6.3μm.

Surface Grinding

Post-cutting, double-sided surface grinding machines (such as Okamoto ACC-SA) refine the backspacer’s thickness to within ±0.01mm tolerance. This replaces traditional single-sided grinding, improving flatness and overall quality. Surface finishing inspection ensures the backspacer meets design requirements.

Dimensional Inspection

Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) verify critical dimensions such as hole pitch (±0.02mm) and flatness (≤0.03mm). For titanium alloy parts, metallographic inspections check α-phase content to prevent embrittlement caused by overheating during processing.

CNC Milling, Drilling, and Chamfering

Five-axis CNC milling shapes complex 3D ergonomic curves in a single clamping, ensuring precise surface roughness (Ra ≤ 1.6μm). Drilling operations ensure through-hole accuracy with concentricity checks, followed by chamfering using ø2.5mm drills and combined drill-chamfer tools to remove burrs and sharp edges.

Degreasing and Electrolytic Polishing

Ultrasonic cleaning with water-based neutral pH solutions removes machining oils. Titanium backspacers receive electrolytic polishing to eliminate oxide layers, achieving a smooth surface finish with Ra ≤ 0.8μm.

Finishing

Surface finishing covers all prior machining marks and may include:

Sandblasting with 120-mesh glass beads followed by anodizing in various colors (e.g., blue, gunmetal gray).
Micro-arc oxidation (MAO), which forms a ceramic-like coating offering hardness HV1500 and electrical insulation properties.
Laser engraving for customized logos or serial numbers (depth 0.05mm).
For stainless steel backspacers, optional PTFE fluorocarbon coatings reduce friction by 40%.

Abrasion and corrosion resistance tests validate the coating’s performance to meet demanding environmental conditions.

Composite Backspacer Production

Composite materials such as G10, Micarta, PEI, and carbon fiber undergo pre-baking (80°C for 4 hours) to prevent delamination during CNC machining. Ultrasonic flaw detection ensures no internal defects.

High-speed CNC milling with HSK tool holders (20,000 rpm spindle speed) shapes burr-free ergonomic contours. Robotic flexible polishing ensures consistent deburring with contact forces ≤5N to avoid damaging delicate surfaces.

Critical tests include interlaminar shear strength (ASTM D2344 standard, ≥60MPa for carbon fiber) and damp-heat cycling (85°C/85% RH for 48 hours) to confirm material stability. Drilling and chamfering complete the process, with polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tooling used to extend tool life 10-fold.

Surface functional enhancements include laser-engraved grid patterns for G10 and 3D raised textures for carbon fiber, complemented by anti-static coatings compliant with ANSI/ESD S20.20.

4. Pocket Clip: Small Component, Big Impact

The pocket clip is a critical accessory that combines utility with style. Shieldon’s precision manufacturing ensures clips are robust, aesthetically pleasing, and reliable.

Titanium Pocket Clips

Stamping and Welding

Strong multi-layer welding processes ensure clip durability. Welds undergo pre-welding inspections to verify strength and correct alignment.

Wire / Fiber Laser Cutting

Titanium clips (0.8–1.5mm thickness) are cut using IPG fiber lasers at cutting speeds of 4m/min, maintaining heat-affected zones ≤0.1mm. Surface inspections confirm the quality of cuts for subsequent processing.

Surface Grinding

Double-sided surface grinding (Okamoto ACC-1224DX) controls thickness ±0.01mm and flatness ≤0.02mm. Post-grinding surface roughness is inspected to meet design specifications.

CNC Milling and Inspection

Five-axis CNC milling forms complex curves ergonomically, achieving Ra ≤ 1.6μm. First-article inspections ensure initial production pieces meet standards, improving batch quality consistency.

Elasticity testing subjects clips to 1,000 bend cycles at 90° without fracture (ASTM E290). Inspection data is meticulously recorded for traceability.

Drilling and Chamfering

Combination tooling (drill-ream-chamfer, e.g., Kennametal DF Drill) produces through holes maintaining ±0.01mm tolerance and chamfer C0.3. Concentricity and surface finish inspections follow.

Degreasing and Finishing

Eco-friendly ultrasonic degreasing with water-based solutions (pH 7–8) removes residues. Vacuum drying ensures no residual moisture.

Finishes cover prior machining marks:

Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) provides a 10–30μm ceramic coating with hardness HV1500, insulation, and corrosion resistance.
Titanium Nitride (TiN) PVD coatings impart a gold color and reduce friction by 40%.
Adhesion is verified by ISO 2409 cross-cut tests.
Laser engraving custom anti-slip textures and logos with 0.1mm depth and 0.5mm spacing are available.

Stainless Steel Pocket Clips

Mold Making and Stamping

Molds designed using CAD/CAE software (SolidWorks, AutoForm) simulate material springback to extend mold life up to 500,000 cycles. Material strength is analyzed during mold design to optimize durability.

Servo stamping presses with forces up to 2,050 tons produce clips at rates of 20–60 parts per minute with ±0.01mm tolerances, reducing waste to under 5%.

Wire Cutting and Magnetic Inspection

Magnetic permeability testing ensures 304 stainless steel clips meet ≤1.05μ to prevent counterfeit materials. Fiber laser cutting achieves burr heights ≤0.02mm.

Tapping and Heat Treatment

Through-hole tapping at 160 rpm uses form taps (chipless) to increase thread tensile strength by 30%. Vibratory deburring removes micro-burrs.

Final heat treatment involves vacuum solution treatment at 1050°C, aging at 480°C, and salt spray testing for 96 hours without rust, achieving hardness HRC43–45.

Finishing and Inspection

Basic finishes include sandblasting and electrolytic polishing (Ra ≤ 0.4μm). Advanced options include DLC coating (hardness HV3000, friction coefficient 0.1) and electroless nickel-phosphorus plating with ≥500 hours salt spray resistance.

Fatigue tests simulate 5,000 clamping cycles with permanent deformation ≤0.1mm, and abrasion/corrosion resistances are validated.

5. Liner: The Structural Backbone

The liner provides the structural backbone inside the handle, often housing the locking mechanism and supporting the pivot assembly.

Mold Making and Stamping

Production molds are designed with in-die induction heating technology (±5℃ temperature control) to alleviate stamping stress. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) optimizes mold strength and lifespan, reducing future maintenance.

Presses apply 10–1,000+ tons of force, producing 20–60 parts per minute, with tolerances of ±0.01mm. Innovative molds reduce waste below 5% and extend tool life to millions of parts.

Wire Cutting, Stress Relief, and Straightening

Wire cutting follows nesting diagrams, with vibration aging (frequency 50Hz, amplitude 2mm) eliminating residual stress post-cut. Fully automatic servo-hydraulic straightening machines with laser flatness detection replace manual processes, achieving accuracy ±0.01mm.

Tapping, Chamfering, and Drilling

Thread tapping uses form taps for chipless threading, improving tensile strength by 30%. Chamfering employs ø2.5mm drills and combined tooling for burr removal and smooth edges.

Drilling operations are followed by diameter and depth inspections to ensure compliance with design.

Tratamiento térmico

Stainless steel liners undergo 1050°C solution treatment, cryogenic treatment (-80°C for 2 hours), and tempering at 480°C—resulting in HRC45 ±1 hardness.

Titanium alloy liners receive β-phase heat treatment (950°C × 1h) with rapid cooling to balance strength and toughness.

Post-treatment hardness and microstructure checks confirm material consistency.

Lockbar Cutting and Detent Hole Drilling

Picosecond laser cutting (pulse width 10ps) produces lockbar slots with no heat-affected zones and ±0.02mm precision. Electrochemical machining (ECM) finishes detent holes to ±0.005mm tolerance after pre-machining and heat treatment.

Finishing and Inspection

Finishes cover machining marks, including sandblasting, DLC (HV3000, friction 0.1), nano-ceramic coatings (2–5μm thickness, ≥1000 hours salt spray resistance), and anti-fingerprint fluorosilane oleophobic coatings.

Regular metallographic grain size inspections (ASTM E112), hardness testing, and fatigue evaluations ensure consistent quality.

6. Assembly: The Art of Precision Integration

The assembly process is the critical phase where all components come together to form a fully functional folding knife. It requires meticulous attention to detail, advanced tooling, and stringent quality controls.

Component Preparation

All metal components undergo ultrasonic cleaning with water-based, pH-neutral cleaners to remove machining residues. Short-term rust prevention uses VCI vapor corrosion inhibitors compliant with MIL-PRF-3420H. Components are sorted by tolerance using optical sorting machines to ensure matched parts.

Pivot System Assembly

Ceramic bearings (Si₃N₄ Grade 5) or phosphor bronze washers are installed with aerospace-grade PFPE lubricants (operable from -40°C to 260°C). Titanium 6Al-4V groove spacers match blade grooves with axial clearances ≤0.02mm.

Pivot pins are installed using torque-controlled screwdrivers (0.6–1.2 N·m) with Loctite 243 thread locker. Laser alignment devices ensure pivot concentricity with deviations ≤0.015mm, reducing human error.

Locking Mechanism Installation

Frame lock and liner lock components, including mirror-polished locking heads and blade contact surfaces (Ra ≤ 0.1μm), are assembled. Stop pins (D2 tool steel, HRC60) ensure secure lock engagement ≥80% of blade thickness.

Button locks and axial locks undergo pre-compression testing to confirm spring modulus within ±5%, and laser calibration adjusts lock release travel to 1.5–2.0mm.

Handle Integration

Liners and G10 handle scales are cold-riveted with hollow rivets (M3, Al 7075) under torque control (8–12kN) to prevent cracking. Stainless steel pocket clips (SUS 304) are fastened with Torx screws and secured with thread locker. Clip tension is tested for clamping force (1.5–2.5N) and durability after 5,000 simulated insertions.

Functional Debugging

Opening/closing smoothness is tested on automated machines simulating 1,000 cycles, with resistance fluctuations ≤10%. Micro-amounts of FDA-certified MoS₂ dry film lubricant are applied to friction points.

Lock stability is verified with impact testers striking at 5J energy, with lock displacement ≤0.1mm. High and low temperature cycling (-30°C to 60°C) confirms lock engagement reliability.

7. Inspection: Ensuring Flawless Performance and Safety

Quality control is non-negotiable in fabricación de cuchillos plegables. Shieldon employs rigorous inspection protocols throughout production to detect defects early and ensure consistent, reliable end products.

Possible Quality Defects Monitored

Common defects addressed include:

Off-center blades
Lock play (vertical/horizontal)
Lock rock and stick
Lock slip or incomplete engagement
Hot spots causing user discomfort
Detent ball misalignment
Blade edge colliding with handle back

Basic Structural Inspection

Blade Centering Check:
Using Mitutoyo digital calipers (±0.01mm), inspectors measure the gap between blade and handle after deployment, requiring deviation ≤0.1mm.

Pivot System Inspection:
Laser concentricity testers verify pivot concentricity with deviations ≤0.02mm. Opening torque is measured with digital torque gauges, targeting 0.5–1.2 N·m for opening and ≤0.3 N·m for closing.

Locking Mechanism Tests

Lock Engagement Depth: Optical comparators (Nikon V12, 50X magnification) confirm lock contact area ≥80% of blade tang.
Lock Strength: Vertical load tests apply 50N force with blade deployed; blade displacement must be ≤0.5mm. Lateral loads of 30N limit deflection to ≤1°.
Lock Failure: Impact unlock tests strike the lock bar with 3J hammer blows to verify no disengagement. Over-travel is checked by applying an extra 5° manual pressure after blade deployment, ensuring no plastic deformation.

Functionality and Durability Inspection

Automatic opening/closing testers simulate 10,000 cycles per ASTM F2992. Resistance curves are measured every 1,000 cycles with deviations under 10%, replacing subjective “feel” assessments with quantitative data.

Detent ball positioning is verified by sound detectors for consistent “click” frequency (tolerance ±5%). Wear depth after life cycle tests must remain ≤0.02mm, measured by white light interferometry.

Safety and Ergonomics Inspection

Edge areas are checked for burrs using 200-grit sandpaper scraping, ensuring no snagging. Pressure-sensitive film maps grip areas to detect hot spots or sharp protrusions.

Accidental opening prevention is validated via:

Drop tests from 1.5m onto concrete (blade remains closed after three drops).
Pocket clip vibration simulations for 30 minutes with blade closed.

These tests ensure compliance with stringent Western market regulations such as California Knife Laws.

Surface and Weather Resistance

Coating Adhesion: Cross-cut tests (ISO 2409) require grade 0 (no peeling).
Abrasion Resistance: Taber abrasion tests use CS10 wheels, 500g load, 1,000 cycles; coating wear must be ≤5μm.
Salt Spray Corrosion Tests: Neutral salt spray (ASTM B117, 72 hours) and accelerated copper-accelerated salt spray (CASS, 24 hours) confirm rust and blister resistance.
Environmental Simulation: High-low temperature cycling (-30°C to 60°C) tests coating and structural resilience to outdoor extremes.

8. Laser Marking: Precision Branding and Compliance

Accurate, durable laser marking is essential for branding, compliance, and traceability.

Basic Markings

Common markings include:

Brand logos
Model numbers
Material type (e.g., “CPM-S30V”)
Product name (e.g., “The Warrior”)

Markings conform to technical drawings and approved samples ensuring consistent layout and depth.

Compliance Markings

Where applicable:

CE marks
Safety warnings such as “Keep Away from Children”

Techniques by Material

Titanium and Stainless Steel: IPG fiber lasers produce permanent, wear-resistant marks with depths between 0.05 and 0.1 mm.
Coated Surfaces: UV laser marking is used to protect coating integrity while enabling high-contrast markings.

9. Cleaning & Protective Treatments: Preserving Product Integrity

To ensure pristine condition upon delivery, Shieldon integrates cleaning and anti-corrosion treatments.

Cleaning Standards

All cleaning is performed in ISO Class 7 cleanrooms, limiting particulate contamination to ≤35,200 particles/m³.

Residue inspections use FDA 21 CFR-compliant cotton swab tests to verify no visible oils or contaminants remain.

Short-Term Protection

Products are wrapped in Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) paper, providing rust protection for up to six months and complying with MIL-PRF-3420 standards.

Long-Term Protection

Heavy-metal-free, REACH-compliant bio-based anti-rust oils are sprayed onto metal components for extended preservation during storage and transit.

10. Customized Packaging: Presentation Meets Protection

Packaging protects the product during transit and enhances customer experience.

Packaging Tiers

Economy Grade: Double-wall corrugated FSC-certified color boxes with EPE shock-absorbing liners.
Premium Grade: Anodized aluminum gift boxes with flocked liners and magnetic closures, offering a luxurious unboxing experience.

Standardized Accessories

Each package contains multilingual user manuals (EN, DE, FR, ES, JP minimum) and a tool kit with a custom bit driver and micro grease syringe for maintenance.

Anti-Counterfeiting Features

Tamper-evident paper seals that void upon opening
Invisible UV security codes visible only under UV light, enhancing authenticity verification

11. Packing & Label Management: Efficiency and Traceability

Shieldon’s packing process integrates anti-oxidation measures, accessory sorting, and detailed labeling to streamline logistics and maintain quality control.

Packing Process

Anti-oxidation Sealing: Desiccants are placed inside packages or vacuum sealing is applied to minimize moisture.
Accessory Sorting: User manuals, warranty cards, and spare screws are organized in dedicated compartments.
Traceability Labels: Each inner box features a QR code linking to production batch numbers and QC inspector IDs.

Standardized Packaging Specifications

Inner Box: Holds a single knife, ≤2kg, dimensioned 200×100×30mm.
Middle Box: Contains 10 inner boxes, constructed from E-flute corrugated board with compression strength ≥400kg (ISTA 3A tested).
Outer Carton: Packs 10 middle boxes per pallet on fumigated wood pallets marked with IPPC certification.

Smart Labeling System

QR codes provide quick access to batch production details, QC reports, and material certificates. For air freight, “Magnetized Material” hazard labels are affixed per IATA Section 902 requirements.

12. Shipping: Global Reach with Care

Shieldon supports flexible, reliable shipping options tailored to client needs.

Upgraded Logistics Services

Air Freight: DHL/FedEx priority, door-to-door within seven days for shipments over 21kg, with temperature control maintained between 15°C and 25°C.
Ocean Freight: Full Container Load (FCL) or Less-than-Container Load (LCL) with Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) or Delivered At Place (DAP) incoterms.
Rail Freight: China-Europe rail service (Xi’an to Hamburg), transit time approximately 18 days, with real-time GPS tracking.

Customs Documentation Package

Mandatory documents include commercial invoices, packing lists, Certificate of Origin, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Optional certificates such as EU CE Declarations and US FCC Statements are provided as needed.

Insurance Options

Basic Insurance: Coverage at 110% of CIF value, protecting against common transport risks.
Special Insurance: Available for war risk and strike risk coverage, recommended for shipments to Middle East and Latin America.

13. Environmental & Sustainability Statement: Responsible Manufacturing

Shieldon integrates sustainable practices across the supply chain to reduce environmental impact.

Wastewater Treatment

CNC cutting emulsions are treated through demulsification and biochemical processing, meeting GB8978 discharge standards. Heat treatment facilities use activated carbon adsorption and catalytic combustion to comply with EPA limits.

Supply Chain Certifications

Packaging materials contain less than 5% plastic and achieve recyclability rates above 90%, with EPE replaced by honeycomb paper where possible. Each shipment is accompanied by a carbon footprint report detailing CO₂ emissions.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Shieldon holds SA8000 certification, ensuring ethical labor practices including fair wages and working hours. A strict Conflict Minerals Statement confirms no tantalum or tin sourced from conflict zones such as the Democratic Republic of Congo.