Frequently asked questions

No. Not every part needs ESD protection. It depends on the component and the application. In general, exposed components need ESD protection, while encapsulated parts often don't. Before specifying the tray, Termotray assesses what actually needs protection and recommends the most suitable option.

Conductive material drains charge quickly, while static dissipative material releases it gradually and in a controlled way. In many cases, dissipative material is all the component needs. Because conductive material costs more, it's worth confirming the class with Termotray's engineering team before you request a quote.

The choice between topical and in-resin anti-static depends on the tray's service life. A topical anti-static coating works well for single-use or short-cycle trays. An in-resin anti-static additive keeps the tray protected for years and suits trays built for many use cycles.

No. There's no single best tray material, only the one best suited to the tray's life cycle and function.

A matrix tray is an indexed, robot-ready tray in which every pocket has an exact, repeatable position, like an address.

In a poka-yoke tray, each cavity accepts the part only in the correct position. Left-hand and right-hand parts, for example, fit only in their own cavities.

Yes, process trays work for kanban. Fixed positions make it easier to see, count, and spot missing parts. Parts are counted by tray and by box, and tray color can signal each part's status on the line.

Not always. Whether a returnable tray costs less depends on where the tray goes after use. The tray's price is only part of the full cost, which also includes cost per cycle, freight, disposal, and part damage. When the tray ends its trip at the customer's assembly line, an expendable tray is usually the best choice.

Yes, Termotray disposes of used trays when needed. You can ship the trays back to Termotray at your own expense (reverse logistics), and we'll dispose of them properly.

Yes. The tray is sized to fit the KLT bin, rack, or OEM-standard packaging you already use.

A loose lid is used when the tray above already covers the one below. A snap-lock lid holds the part without marking it and is recommended for shipping and more demanding handling.

Yes. Clear inserts and blisters allow visual inspection of the part without opening the package.

No. Termotray doesn't sell off-the-shelf trays. Every tray is custom-designed around the part's geometry, the cavity layout, and the application, and specified for the job it will do.

No. There's no minimum order quantity (MOQ). Termotray handles everything from pilot runs to volume production, in the quantities your operation needs. The one exception is a custom color developed for a specific customer, which requires a minimum purchase.

Possibly. Termotray will evaluate your existing mold to see whether it can be reused, which would reduce your upfront investment. If you can, send your current tray, or photos of it, along with your part details to speed up the review.

Termotray needs four things to get started. The part: a physical sample, drawing, or 3D CAD file. The volume: quantity per lot and frequency of use. The workflow: where and how the tray will be used. The requirements: ESD protection when needed, technical cleanliness, a standard box or rack, and anything your customer specifies. With this information, Termotray's team reviews your application and prepares an initial tray proposal for your part.