Silicone DFM: what to include in a drawing review
A useful silicone DFM review connects geometry to material, molding, inspection and assembly requirements before tooling is agreed.
Start with function and critical features
Mark sealing faces, mating components, load direction, contact medium and operating conditions. Give critical dimensions their own tolerances. Identify the drawing revision and whether inspection occurs in the free state or in a defined fixture.
Review moldability for the actual grade
Discuss wall transitions, radii, draft, undercuts, gates and parting lines with the molder. Their acceptable values depend on compound, geometry and tooling. There is no universal wall thickness, draft angle or Shore hardness threshold for every silicone part.
Agree the deliverables
Request marked-up drawings, unresolved questions, proposed tool concept, flash limits and a sample inspection plan. Separate tooling, sampling, testing and production in the quotation. Protolabs guidance is an example of one manufacturer’s process limits; it does not establish Silicraft capability.
Before requesting a quote
Send the drawing revision, application, material preference, critical dimensions, annual quantity, delivery market and required evidence. Feasibility, testing, price and timing need written project review.
Buyer questions
How soon will the review be completed?
Timing and fees are confirmed after our engineering team has reviewed the drawing and documentation requirements. A generic article cannot establish a project delivery commitment.