Custom silicone parts: an RFQ checklist for OEM buyers
A useful silicone molding quotation starts with an agreed part specification. Send the drawing revision, application, material requirements, sample quantity and expected order volume together. This checklist helps product teams and sourcing partners compare suppliers on the same scope before committing to tooling.
1. Define the part and its operating conditions
Provide a 2D drawing with units, datums and critical dimensions, plus STEP or IGES geometry when available. Identify sealing surfaces, parting-line restrictions, acceptable flash and cosmetic areas. A photograph or sample can start a discussion, but cannot replace an approved production drawing.
Describe contact media, continuous and peak temperatures, cleaning method, expected service life and mating components. State required hardness and whether it is a target or a validated material specification. For a seal or gasket, include the groove and assembly conditions; for a keypad, include actuation and interface requirements.
2. Specify quantities and documentation
Separate development samples, the first order, annual demand and release quantities. Provide the destination country, packaging requirements and required arrival date. Ask the supplier to identify which dates depend on tool completion, material availability and sample approval.
List the exact material and product documents required by your customer. Request the compound designation and current technical data sheet. Where a QMS certificate or test report matters, check the legal entity, manufacturing site, scope, expiry and tested formulation. A named standard in a catalog is not proof of compliance. See the food-contact guide and medical silicone guide.
3. Compare the complete quotation
Compare quotes using the same drawing, material and quantity. Separate tooling, samples, unit price, testing, packaging and freight. Record permitted substitutions, tooling ownership, maintenance, payment milestones and the process for changes after approval.
| Quotation line | Ask the supplier to confirm |
|---|---|
| Tooling | Cavity count, ownership, tool changes and maintenance |
| Material | Exact compound, color, cure system and allowed substitutions |
| Sampling | Sample quantity, dimensional report and acceptance criteria |
| Production | MOQ, quantity breaks, inspection plan and traceability |
| Delivery | Milestones, packaging, freight and agreed Incoterms |
4. Approve a sample against written criteria
Agree the measurement method and functional tests before the first sample. Record any dimensional or appearance deviation and whether a second sample is required. Keep the approved drawing revision, material identification and sample decision together. Production approval should follow that record; a catalog photograph alone cannot establish performance.
Browse the product families to identify the closest starting point, then submit the drawing and requirements using the inquiry form. Feasibility, MOQ, price, certification scope and lead time require project-specific confirmation.
Common sourcing questions
Can I request a quote without a 3D model?
Yes. Start with a dimensioned sketch, photographs or an existing sample description. Identify what is still unknown; a production drawing and acceptance criteria will need to be agreed before tooling.
Is a small order always cheaper with compression molding?
Not necessarily. Compare geometry, material, tooling, labor, scrap, inspection and order volume. Ask for the assumptions behind each proposed process instead of selecting it from quantity alone.
Which information makes quotations comparable?
Use the same drawing revision, compound specification, quantities, inspection requirements, packaging and delivery terms. Keep tooling and validation charges separate from the unit price.