Abstract
The selection of a traffic cone manufacturer represents a significant decision in the procurement process for public works, private construction, and event management. This choice has direct implications for public safety, project efficiency, and long-term budgetary outcomes. A comprehensive evaluation of a potential supplier must extend beyond a simple comparison of unit costs. It requires a nuanced understanding of material science, particularly the distinctions between PVC and PE plastics, their durability under varied environmental conditions, and the physics of cone stability. Furthermore, adherence to internationally recognized standards for visibility and retroreflectivity, such as those outlined in the MUTCD, serves as a crucial benchmark for quality. A proficient traffic cone manufacturer demonstrates not only robust quality control and certified manufacturing processes but also the flexibility to provide customization and a broad portfolio of safety products. This analysis offers a structured framework for buyers, particularly in emerging markets like South America and the Middle East, to assess manufacturers on seven fundamental factors, ensuring a partnership that prioritizes safety and value.
Key Takeaways
- Evaluate material science; PVC offers superior flexibility and all-weather durability compared to PE.
- Verify compliance with high-level international standards for color and retroreflectivity.
- Assess the manufacturer's quality control, production capacity, and industry certifications.
- Consider a traffic cone manufacturer who offers customization and a wide product range.
- Analyze the total cost of ownership, not just the initial per-unit price.
- Investigate the supplier's export experience, especially to your specific region.
- Prioritize manufacturers with a strong reputation and responsive customer support.
Table of Contents
- The Silent Sentinels: Why Your Manufacturer Choice Matters
- Factor 1: The Soul of the Cone – Material Science and Structural Integrity
- Factor 2: A Beacon in the Dark – Compliance with Visibility Standards
- Factor 3: The Mark of a Craftsman – Manufacturing Processes and Quality Assurance
- Factor 4: Beyond the Standard Orange – Customization and Product Ecosystem
- Factor 5: From Factory to Worksite – Supply Chain and International Logistics
- Factor 6: An Investment in Safety – The Total Cost of Ownership
- Factor 7: Building a Partnership – Reputation and Customer Support
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Concluding Thought on Prudent Selection
- References
The Silent Sentinels: Why Your Manufacturer Choice Matters
Imagine a winding road at dusk, rain slicking the asphalt. A construction crew has just finished their day's work, leaving behind an open excavation. What stands between a tired driver and a potential catastrophe? It is often the humble traffic cone. These simple objects are silent, steadfast guardians of our roadways. They delineate new paths, warn of unseen hazards, and create pockets of safety for vulnerable workers. Their effectiveness, however, is not a given. It is a direct result of their design, materials, and construction—qualities determined entirely by the traffic cone manufacturer that produced them.
Choosing a supplier for these devices is an act of profound responsibility. It is a decision that ripples outward, affecting the safety of pedestrians and motorists, the security of your workforce, and the financial health of your project. A cone that fades under the sun, cracks in the cold, or tumbles in a slight breeze is not merely an inconvenience; it is a point of failure in a complex safety system. Conversely, a well-made traffic cone from a reputable source performs its duty reliably, day after day, in the harsh and unforgiving environment of a live roadway. This guide is designed to equip you with the intellectual tools needed to make a discerning choice, moving beyond surface-level price considerations to a deeper appreciation of what constitutes a truly superior product and a reliable manufacturing partner. We will explore the seven fundamental pillars of evaluation that separate a mere vendor from a genuine partner in safety.
Factor 1: The Soul of the Cone – Material Science and Structural Integrity
The physical object we call a traffic cone is the embodiment of specific choices made by its creator. The most fundamental of these choices is the material. To the casual observer, all cones might look the same, but their performance is deeply rooted in polymer science. Understanding the differences between the primary materials used is the first step toward becoming an informed buyer.
PVC vs. PE: A Fundamental Choice
The two most common materials used in modern cone production are Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Polyethylene (PE). While both are plastics, their molecular structures give them distinct personalities, making them suitable for different applications and price points.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is often considered the premium material for high-performance traffic cones. Its primary characteristic is its flexibility and "shape memory." A well-made PVC cone can be run over by a vehicle and will spring back to its original upright position. This resilience is invaluable on busy worksites where such impacts are common. It means a longer service life and fewer replacements. PVC also holds its color exceptionally well against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, preventing the fluorescent orange or lime from fading into a pale, ineffective shade. Its performance in extreme temperatures is also noteworthy; it resists becoming brittle in the cold or overly soft in intense heat, a vital consideration for buyers in the varied climates of Russia, the Middle East, or the Andes region of South America.
Polyethylene (PE), on the other hand, is generally a more rigid and lightweight material. This can make the cones easier to deploy, but it comes with trade-offs. PE is more susceptible to cracking upon impact, especially in cold weather. Instead of bouncing back, a PE cone might shatter, creating debris and necessitating immediate replacement. While some PE formulations are treated with UV inhibitors, they may not offer the same long-term colorfastness as PVC. The primary advantage of PE is often a lower initial cost, which can be appealing for large-volume purchases or for applications where the risk of impact is low, such as indoor events or pedestrian control in a protected area.
For a clearer picture, let's compare their properties side-by-side.
| Feature | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Polyethylene (PE) |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High; springs back to shape after impact. | Low; can crack or shatter upon impact. |
| Durability | Excellent; long service life. | Moderate; prone to damage, especially in cold. |
| Weight | Heavier, providing inherent stability. | Lighter, may require a heavier base. |
| UV Resistance | Excellent; superior color retention. | Good; may fade over time without additives. |
| Cost | Higher initial unit cost. | Lower initial unit cost. |
| Best Use Case | Highways, construction zones, high-traffic areas. | Indoor use, event management, low-risk areas. |
The Role of Recycled Materials
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness, the use of recycled materials has become a significant factor. Many manufacturers, particularly those producing two-piece PVC cones, utilize 100% recycled black PVC for the base. This is an excellent practice, both ecologically and functionally. It diverts waste from landfills while creating a heavy, stable foundation for the cone. The quality of a traffic cone manufacturer can often be judged by how they process these recycled materials. A top-tier supplier will have rigorous cleaning and reprocessing protocols to ensure the recycled base is free of impurities that could compromise its strength. When inquiring with a potential supplier, ask about their sourcing and processing of recycled materials.
Weight and Stability: The Physics of Staying Put
A traffic cone that falls over is useless. Its stability is a matter of simple physics: a low center of gravity. This is achieved by concentrating the majority of the cone's mass in its base. A standard 70 cm (28-inch) cone for highway use might weigh between 3 kg and 4.5 kg, with most of that weight located in the black base. The interlocking design between the conical body and the base is also a mark of quality. A secure connection prevents the two pieces from separating when struck or handled roughly. When evaluating a cone, feel its weight and balance. It should feel substantial and firmly planted, not top-heavy. This inherent stability reduces the need for additional weights like sandbags, saving labor and time during deployment and retrieval.
Factor 2: A Beacon in the Dark – Compliance with Visibility Standards
A traffic cone has two primary jobs: to be seen during the day and to be seen at night. While the fluorescent orange or lime green color handles daytime visibility, nighttime performance depends entirely on its retroreflective properties. A manufacturer's commitment to meeting or exceeding established visibility standards is a non-negotiable aspect of quality.
Understanding the Regulatory Landscape
Different countries and regions have their own specific regulations for traffic control devices. For example, the United States relies on the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), while Europe has its own set of standards (BS EN 13422). While your specific region in Southeast Asia or South Africa may not legally mandate adherence to these specific codes, they serve as an invaluable international benchmark for safety and performance. A traffic cone manufacturer that designs its products to meet the stringent requirements of the MUTCD or EN standards is demonstrating a commitment to a higher level of quality. These standards dictate precise specifications for:
- Color: The exact chromaticity coordinates for fluorescent orange to ensure it is maximally visible to the human eye in daylight and twilight.
- Stability: The ability of a cone to withstand a certain wind speed without tipping over.
- Physical Integrity: Requirements for durability and impact resistance.
When you see a manufacturer mention compliance with these standards, it signals that their products have been designed and tested against rigorous, data-driven safety criteria.
The Importance of Retroreflectivity
Retroreflection is a fascinating piece of optical science. Unlike a mirror, which reflects light back at an opposing angle, or a diffuse white surface, which scatters light in all directions, a retroreflective surface returns light directly back to its source. This is exactly what is needed for a driver to see a traffic cone at night; the light from their headlights is reflected directly back to their eyes, making the cone appear to glow brightly. This effect is achieved through the use of reflective collars or sleeves applied to the cone. The quality and type of this sheeting are paramount.
A reputable traffic cone manufacturer will use high-quality sheeting from established producers like 3M or Avery Dennison. There are several grades of sheeting, each offering different levels of brightness.
| Reflective Sheeting Type | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Engineer Grade | Uses glass bead technology. The oldest and most basic type. | Low-speed roads, parking lots, non-critical applications. |
| High-Intensity Prismatic (HIP) | Uses microscopic prisms instead of beads. Significantly brighter than Engineer Grade. | Highways, construction zones, areas requiring high visibility. |
| Diamond Grade (DG3) | The highest level of performance, using full-cube prismatic technology. Extremely bright at long distances and wide angles. | High-risk areas, complex interchanges, overhead signage. |
For most road work applications, High-Intensity Prismatic (HIP) sheeting offers the best balance of performance and cost. When choosing a manufacturer, inquire specifically about the brand and grade of reflective sheeting they use. A quality supplier will be transparent about these details and may even offer different grades as options. The method of application also matters; the collars should be securely recessed into the cone's surface to protect them from abrasion and peeling.
Factor 3: The Mark of a Craftsman – Manufacturing Processes and Quality Assurance
The journey from raw plastic pellets to a finished traffic cone involves sophisticated machinery and, most importantly, a culture of quality control. The underlying manufacturing process affects the final product's consistency, durability, and appearance. A discerning buyer should develop an appreciation for what happens inside the factory.
From Pellet to Cone: Injection Molding
The most common and effective method for producing high-quality, two-piece PVC cones is injection molding. Imagine a precise, high-pressure syringe for plastics. In this process, raw PVC pellets are melted into a liquid state and then injected under immense pressure into a two-part mold shaped like the cone body or the base. The plastic fills the cavity completely, creating a perfectly formed, dense, and uniform part.
This method allows for incredible precision. It enables the creation of intricate features like recessed grooves for reflective collars, ergonomic handles at the top, and the complex interlocking patterns that join the cone to its base. The high pressure ensures there are no voids or weak spots in the plastic. While the initial investment in injection molding equipment and molds is substantial, it is the hallmark of a serious, high-volume traffic cone manufacturer dedicated to producing consistent, high-quality products. When you examine a cone, look for the subtle signs of this process—a smooth, uniform finish and crisp, well-defined edges. You can learn more about a supplier's commitment to their craft by reviewing their company's manufacturing philosophy and production capabilities.
The Signature of a Quality Manufacturer
Beyond the specific process, a commitment to quality control is evident in the final product. Before placing a large order, it is always wise to request samples. When you receive them, become a detective. Scrutinize them for the following characteristics:
- Color Consistency: Are all the orange cones the exact same shade? Variations can indicate poor control over pigment mixing.
- Seamless Finish: Run your hand over the surface. It should be smooth, without any sharp plastic burrs (flash) left over from the molding process.
- Secure Collars: Try to peel at the edge of a reflective collar. It should be firmly seated and resistant to tampering.
- Weight and Balance: Does the sample feel as substantial as its specifications claim? Does it sit flat without wobbling?
- Flexibility Test: If it is a PVC cone, try bending it or stepping on it (with care). It should deform and then return to its original shape without creasing or cracking.
These small details collectively paint a picture of a manufacturer's attention to detail.
Certifications to Seek: ISO and Beyond
Formal certifications provide third-party validation of a manufacturer's processes. The most relevant of these is ISO 9001. An ISO 9001 certification does not directly certify the product itself; rather, it certifies that the manufacturer has a robust and well-documented Quality Management System (QMS). This means they have established procedures for everything from inspecting raw materials to final product testing, handling customer feedback, and continuously improving their processes.
For a buyer located thousands of miles away, an ISO 9001 certification provides a significant degree of reassurance. It suggests that the traffic cone manufacturer is a professional organization committed to predictable outcomes and consistent quality, reducing the risk of receiving a substandard batch of products.
Factor 4: Beyond the Standard Orange – Customization and Product Ecosystem
While the primary function of a traffic cone is standardized, the needs of a project are not. A superior manufacturing partner understands this and offers flexibility in its products. They also recognize that a single cone is just one component in a larger road safety ecosystem.
Beyond Orange: Color, Stenciling, and Branding
Standard fluorescent orange is the most common color for a reason—it provides the highest contrast against most backgrounds. However, other colors serve specific purposes, and a versatile traffic cone manufacturer can accommodate these needs.
- Lime Green: Increasingly used for pedestrian crossings and to denote the presence of emergency services, as it offers high visibility.
- Blue: Often used to mark accessible parking spaces or to indicate the presence of water lines for utility workers.
- White: Commonly used for event management, such as directing traffic at concerts or sporting events, or for valet parking zones.
- Yellow: Can be used to warn of specific overhead or electrical hazards.
Beyond color, the ability to add custom branding is a valuable service. A manufacturer that can apply a high-quality stencil of your company's logo or name to each cone serves two purposes. First, it promotes your brand on the worksite. Second, and more practically, it acts as a significant deterrent to theft, a common problem with unsecured road equipment.
A Holistic Approach to Road Safety
Your safety needs rarely begin and end with the traffic cone. You may also require delineator posts, temporary signage, speed bumps, or more advanced electronic warning systems. A manufacturer who offers a broad spectrum of products can become a highly efficient, single-source supplier. This simplifies procurement, consolidates shipping, and ensures a consistent level of quality across all your safety equipment.
For example, a forward-thinking supplier will also be an expert in related technologies. They might offer a range of solar road stud markers, which are embedded in the pavement and use solar power to illuminate the roadway at night, providing superior lane guidance in unlit areas. They may also produce road cat’s eyes, the classic retroreflective pavement markers that have guided drivers for decades. Furthermore, a truly innovative partner will be developing and manufacturing advanced solar traffic sign systems. These are portable, self-powered signs (like "STOP" or "WORK AHEAD") that use bright LEDs, making them far more conspicuous than static signs, especially in poor weather or at night.
Partnering with a reputable road safety products supplier that has a comprehensive product catalog allows for integrated safety planning. You can source cones, studs, and signs from a single expert partner, ensuring all your components work together as a cohesive system.
Factor 5: From Factory to Worksite – Supply Chain and International Logistics
For buyers in South America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Russia, the product's journey from the factory floor to your local worksite is a critical, and often complex, part of the procurement process. A manufacturer's experience and competence in global logistics can be as important as the quality of the cone itself. An excellent product that arrives late, damaged, or incurs unexpected fees is a failure of the supply chain.
Navigating the Waters of Global Shipping
International trade has its own language, and understanding a few key terms is essential. Most transactions will be governed by Incoterms (International Commercial Terms), which define the responsibilities of the seller and buyer. Common terms you will encounter include:
- FOB (Free On Board): The seller is responsible for getting the goods loaded onto the shipping vessel at the designated port. From that point on, the buyer assumes all responsibility for shipping costs, insurance, and customs clearance.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): The seller is responsible for the cost of the goods, the insurance for the shipment, and the freight charges to get the goods to the buyer's destination port. The buyer is still responsible for customs clearance and any duties or taxes.
A seasoned traffic cone manufacturer will have a dedicated logistics team that can clearly explain these options and provide accurate quotes. They will also have established relationships with reliable freight forwarders.
Packaging is another crucial detail. Cones are bulky, and inefficient packaging can dramatically increase shipping costs. Look for a manufacturer that has optimized their packaging for container shipping. Cones should be designed to stack neatly and securely without wasting space. They should be packed onto sturdy, standardized pallets that can be easily handled by forklifts, and then shrink-wrapped to prevent shifting and damage during transit.
Experience in Your Region
Every region has its own unique customs regulations, port procedures, and documentation requirements. A manufacturer that has a history of exporting to your part of the world—be it the Port of Santos in Brazil, the Port of Durban in South Africa, or the Port of Singapore—will have an invaluable advantage. They will understand the necessary paperwork, be able to anticipate potential delays, and know how to properly classify their goods to avoid customs issues. This experience translates into smoother, more predictable deliveries for you. When vetting a supplier, ask for references or case studies of their shipments to your country or a neighboring one.
Lead Times and Production Capacity
Before committing to a large order, it is vital to have a transparent conversation about production capabilities. You should ask:
- What is your typical lead time for an order of this size? (Lead time is the period from placing the order to the goods being ready for shipment).
- What is your factory's maximum monthly production capacity for this type of traffic cone?
- Are there any upcoming factory holidays or shutdowns that could affect my order?
A professional traffic cone manufacturer will be able to provide clear, confident answers to these questions. Their ability to manage their production schedule and communicate it effectively is a strong indicator of their overall reliability as a business partner. This foresight allows you to plan your project timeline with greater certainty.
Factor 6: An Investment in Safety – The Total Cost of Ownership
One of the most common mistakes in procurement is focusing solely on the initial unit price. The cheapest traffic cone is rarely the least expensive one over its lifetime. A more sophisticated approach is to consider the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which accounts for not only the purchase price but also all the associated costs incurred over the product's service life.
The Fallacy of the Lowest Unit Price
Let's consider a simple, hypothetical scenario.
- Manufacturer A offers a low-quality PE cone for $8 per unit.
- Manufacturer B offers a high-quality PVC cone for $12 per unit.
A project requires 1,000 cones. The initial purchase from Manufacturer A would be $8,000, while the purchase from Manufacturer B would be $12,000. The $4,000 savings from choosing Manufacturer A seems attractive.
However, let's project forward. The PE cones from Manufacturer A are brittle. Over a two-year project, you find that 40% of them crack or shatter from minor impacts and need to be replaced. That's 400 cones at $8 each, an additional cost of $3,200.
The durable PVC cones from Manufacturer B, in contrast, have a much lower failure rate. Perhaps only 5% need replacement over the same period due to severe damage or loss. That's 50 cones at $12 each, an additional cost of only $600.
After two years, the total expenditure for Manufacturer A's cones is $8,000 + $3,200 = $11,200. The total for Manufacturer B's cones is $12,000 + $600 = $12,600. The initial $4,000 price gap has narrowed significantly. But this calculation is still incomplete.
Factoring in Replacement and Labor Costs
The analysis above ignores the "soft" costs associated with using inferior products. Every time a cone needs to be replaced, a worker has to retrieve the broken one and deploy a new one. This takes time and labor, which have a real cost. More importantly, every broken cone represents a temporary failure in the safety perimeter, creating a window of increased risk for both workers and the public. A project that is constantly replacing its traffic control devices can also suffer from delays and project downtime.
When you factor in the labor costs of replacement, the potential costs of project delays, and the unquantifiable but significant cost of increased safety risk, the slightly higher initial investment in a durable product from a quality traffic cone manufacturer often reveals itself to be the most economically prudent decision. The $12 cone that lasts for five years is far cheaper than the $8 cone that must be replaced every two years.
Factor 7: Building a Partnership – Reputation and Customer Support
When you select a traffic cone manufacturer, you are not just buying a product; you are entering into a business relationship. The quality of this relationship, defined by the manufacturer's reputation and responsiveness, is the final and perhaps most telling factor in your evaluation.
Vetting Your Potential Partner
In the digital age, it has become easier to investigate a company's track record. A reputable manufacturer will be proud of their work and should be able to provide evidence of their success. Look for:
- Case Studies: Detailed accounts of how they supplied products for specific projects. These demonstrate real-world experience.
- Client Testimonials: Direct quotes or endorsements from previous customers. While these are often curated, they can still provide insight into customer satisfaction.
- Industry Presence: Does the company attend international trade shows? Do they have a professional, informative website? Do they publish articles or white papers about road safety? An active presence suggests they are engaged and respected within their industry.
- Longevity: How long has the company been in business? A long history of operation is often a sign of stability and a sustained ability to satisfy customers.
The Value of Responsive Communication
For an international buyer, clear and timely communication is vital. When you send an inquiry, how quickly do you receive a thoughtful response? Are the sales and technical staff fluent in a common business language like English? Do they answer your questions directly and thoroughly, or are their answers vague?
A responsive communication style is a proxy for good customer service in general. If a company is attentive and helpful during the sales process, they are far more likely to be helpful if an issue arises after the sale. A manufacturer who invests in a skilled, multilingual sales and support team demonstrates a genuine commitment to their international clients.
Post-Sale Support and Warranties
Finally, inquire about the manufacturer's policies after the purchase is complete. A confident traffic cone manufacturer will stand behind their product. Ask if they offer a warranty against manufacturing defects. While traffic cones are subject to harsh wear and tear, a warranty can protect you against issues like premature color fading or defects in the molding process. Understanding their process for handling claims for damaged or incorrect shipments is also important. A good partner will work with you to resolve these issues quickly and fairly, rather than creating obstacles. This commitment to post-sale support is the ultimate sign that you have chosen not just a supplier, but a true partner dedicated to your project's success and your workers' safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best material for traffic cones?
For most outdoor, high-traffic applications, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is considered the superior material. Its flexibility allows it to withstand vehicle impacts and return to its original shape, giving it a much longer service life. Polyethylene (PE) is a more rigid, lower-cost alternative best suited for indoor use or areas with minimal traffic.
How many traffic cones do I need for a work zone?
The required spacing depends on the speed of the road. As a general rule from standards like the MUTCD, the spacing in feet should be approximately equal to the speed limit in miles per hour. For a 55 mph road, you would place cones about 55 feet (or 17 meters) apart. For slower roads, the spacing can be closer. Always consult local regulations for specific requirements.
Can I get custom colors or logos on my traffic cones?
Yes, most established traffic cone manufacturers offer customization services. You can often order cones in various colors like lime green, blue, or white for specific applications. They can also apply your company's logo or name via stenciling, which is an effective way to brand your equipment and deter theft.
What do the different reflective collar grades mean?
Reflective collars make the cone visible at night. The grades indicate their brightness. Engineer Grade is the most basic, suitable for low-speed areas. High-Intensity Prismatic (HIP) is much brighter and is the standard for most highway and construction applications. Diamond Grade offers the highest level of reflectivity and is used in high-risk environments.
Why is the base of a traffic cone usually black and heavy?
The heavy base provides stability by creating a low center of gravity, which prevents the cone from tipping over in the wind or from the draft of passing vehicles. It is often black because it is typically made from dense, 100% recycled PVC, which is an economical and environmentally friendly way to add the necessary weight.
How do I check if a traffic cone manufacturer is reliable?
Look for several key indicators. Check for an ISO 9001 certification, which validates their quality management system. Ask for product samples to inspect their quality firsthand. Inquire about their export experience to your region and ask for case studies or client testimonials. A reliable manufacturer will have a professional website, responsive customer service, and be transparent about their materials and processes.
A Concluding Thought on Prudent Selection
The process of selecting a traffic cone manufacturer is a thoughtful exercise in risk management and long-term value assessment. It moves beyond the simplicity of a price tag to engage with the complexities of material science, optical physics, and global logistics. By applying the principles outlined in this guide—by scrutinizing materials, demanding compliance, appreciating craftsmanship, seeking customization, planning for logistics, calculating total cost, and vetting reputation—you transform a simple procurement task into a strategic decision. You ensure that the silent sentinels you place on your roads are not just adequate, but exceptional. You build a safer environment for your workers and the public, and you forge a partnership with a supplier who shares your commitment to quality and integrity.
References
Federal Highway Administration. (2023). Manual on uniform traffic control devices. U.S. Department of Transportation. https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/
Hao, X. (2020). Research on the performance of recycled PVC artificial aggregate concrete. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1605(1), 012137.
International Organization for Standardization. (2015). ISO 9001:2015 Quality management systems — Requirements.
Pike, A. M., & Carlson, P. J. (2014). Long-term performance of fluorescent orange and fluorescent yellow-green sheeting for rigid and roll-up signs. Texas A&M Transportation Institute. https://static.tti.tamu.edu/tti.tamu.edu/documents/0-6720-1.pdf
Sina, H., & Falla, G. C. (2019). Development of an eco-friendly traffic cone using recycled plastic and rice husk composite. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 527(1), 012019.
Wistron Industrial Limited. (n.d.). News. https://www.wistronchina.com/news/