How to Write a Die Casting RFQ

A well-written RFQ gets an accurate, usable quote in 48 hours. A poorly written RFQ gets a ballpark that collapses at order confirmation. Here is exactly what to include.

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The 7 Essential RFQ Elements

1. Drawing or 3D Model (Non-Negotiable)

Best: STEP file (.stp). Universal format, accurate geometry, enables DFM analysis.

Acceptable: 2D PDF with all dimensions, tolerances, GD&T callouts, section views, and notes.

Not sufficient: Sketch, photograph, or description only.

PDF drawing checklist: Title block with part number and revision · All dimensional views · General tolerance note AND specific callouts on critical features · Material specification · Surface finish callout · Notes on testing or special processes

2. Material Specification

Specify the alloy: "A380 ASTM B85" or "ADC12 JIS H5302" or "Zamak 5 ASTM B86 Alloy 5."

If unknown, describe requirements: operating temperature, service environment, pressure requirement, heat treatment needed. KastMfg will recommend the appropriate alloy with rationale.

3. Volume Information

• Annual production volume (pieces/year) -the single most important number for pricing
• Estimated program life
• Development/prototype quantity needed

4. Quality Requirements

• Quality system: ISO 9001 or IATF 16949?
• PPAP level (if automotive)
• Special testing: pressure test, X-ray, helium leak?
• Material certificate format: EN 10204 Type 2.2 or 3.1?

5. Secondary Operations Scope

List everything needed for the complete component:

• CNC machining (which features, what tolerances)
• Heat treatment (T5, T6)
• Surface finish (process, color/spec)
• Assembly (inserts, bearings, seals)
• Testing (pressure parameters)

If you quote only the casting when you need a finished component, the quote is not comparable to your current supplier.

6. Target Price (If Known)

Include your target unit price if you have one. This helps structure the quote and flag if the target is achievable.

7. Timeline

• First article samples required by
• Production launch date
• Tooling design review milestone (if applicable)

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RFQ Template

KASTMFG DIE CASTING RFQ
Date: ___________
Contact: Name / Email / Phone

PART
Part name:
Part number:
Drawing revision:
Files attached: [ ] STEP [ ] 2D PDF [ ] Both

MATERIAL
Alloy: ___________ [ ] To be recommended
Heat treatment: [ ] None [ ] T5 [ ] T6 [ ] TBD

VOLUME
Annual production (pieces/year):
Program life (years):
Development quantity:

QUALITY
[ ] ISO 9001 sufficient
[ ] IATF 16949 compliance required
PPAP level (if applicable): ___
Special testing: [ ] Pressure test ___bar [ ] X-ray [ ] Helium leak

SECONDARY OPERATIONS
[ ] CNC machining -features: ___________
[ ] Heat treatment: T5 / T6
[ ] Surface finish: ___________
[ ] Assembly: ___________
[ ] Other: ___________

TIMELINE
First article by: ___________
Production launch: ___________

COMMERCIAL
Target price (if known): USD ___ at ___ pcs/year
Incoterms: [ ] FOB Nanjing [ ] CIF [ ] DDP
Payment preference: ___________

NOTES:

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Common RFQ Mistakes

Missing tolerances: Drawing without tolerance callouts forces the supplier to assume generous tolerances, producing an optimistically low quote that collapses at approval.

"Medium volume": Not usable for quoting. Provide a specific number or range ("5,000-15,000/year").

Omitting secondary operations: Quote the complete component scope, not just the casting.

Ignoring DFM feedback: When a supplier provides DFM notes with a quote, read them. These comments often identify changes that reduce tooling cost and improve quality.

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What KastMfg Returns in 48 Hours

• Tooling cost (itemized)
• Unit price at 3 volume breaks
• Tooling and production lead times
• DFM notes -specific castability feedback
• Alloy recommendation with rationale (if not specified)

Submit your RFQ: yaoqingpu1983@gmail.com | +86 138 1403 4409