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A clearer quotation.
Drawing & enquiry guide
A better drawing.
A clearer quotation.
A practical checklist for investment casting die, custom mould and VMC machining enquiries.
Illustrative drawing only · Not for manufacture
Prepare your enquiry
Send the information
that defines the job.
You do not need a long message to start an enquiry. A clear drawing, the material and the main commercial details usually give the discussion a useful starting point. If a document is incomplete, point out the missing information rather than leaving it open to assumption.
- Dimensioned PDF drawing with revision and units
- STEP/STP, DXF or DWG data where available
- Component material and the tooling application
- Quantity and any repeat-production expectation
- Critical dimensions, tolerances and inspection needs
- Delivery location, country and desired date
1. Identify the drawing and revision
Include the drawing number or part reference, revision and unit system. State whether the drawing describes the finished component, the wax pattern or an existing tool. When files differ, identify which document should guide the enquiry.
2. Explain the component and tooling purpose
Describe where the component is used and what the tool needs to achieve. For investment casting dies, mention the wax-pattern requirement and any known cavity or tooling-interface needs. For VMC work, identify the machining features and whether you will supply the material.
3. Highlight critical requirements
Point out features that are important to the application: interfaces, holes, sealing surfaces, fits or other dimensions. Include inspection expectations and required records. Tolerances and material specifications need to come from the approved engineering requirement, not from an illustrative website image.
4. Include quotation and delivery details
State the quantity, destination city and country, desired date and any packing or documentation requirement. For overseas enquiries, delivery arrangements and commercial terms are discussed for the individual quotation. Do not assume that a delivery date is confirmed until it has been agreed.
5. Share files through the enquiry form
The form accepts configured PDF, image and supported CAD formats with a 5 MB limit. If the required file is larger, mention this in the project details and discuss a suitable sharing method. Make sure you are permitted to share the drawing and avoid including unrelated confidential information.
Drawing enquiry questions
Can I enquire without a complete CAD model?
Yes. Start with the available drawing and information, and explain what is missing. The scope and any additional design work need to be discussed before confirmation.
Should I specify millimetres or inches?
Yes. State the units on the drawing and identify the governing specification. Mixed or unclear units should be clarified during drawing review.
Can a sample part replace an approved drawing?
A sample may help explain the requirement, but dimensions, tolerances, material and approval responsibilities still need to be agreed for the job.
Let’s discuss your next tool
Send the drawing.
Start the conversation.
Tell us what the component needs to do. We’ll review the requirement and discuss tooling, machining and quotation details.