Purchasing
How to compare two aluminum casting quotations
Tooling, machining, inspection and packing can sit in different places on a quotation. Put them on the same basis before comparing the unit price.
Read the guide ↗Resources
Questions that come up
when buying cast parts.
Compare a quotation, work through a drawing issue or prepare for sample approval. Start with the question closest to your part.
First inquiry
What to send when you need a casting quotation
A complete drawing package is helpful. It is not a requirement for starting a conversation about a part.
Read the guide ↗
Process selection
Cast the part or machine it from solid?
Quantity matters, but geometry, changes and functional testing also affect whether casting tooling makes sense.
Read the guide ↗
Drawings & fits
Which dimensions need attention before casting tooling?
The relationship between features often matters more than a long list of individually tight dimensions.
Read the guide ↗Casting quality
Why pores can appear after machining a casting
A smooth outer surface does not describe every feature inside a casting. A newly machined face can reveal a different condition.
Read the guide ↗
Surface finishing
Specify a finish without losing the fit
Coating colour is only part of the requirement. Contact faces, threads, sealing surfaces and appearance standards belong in the same discussion.
Read the guide ↗
Sample approval
What to review before approving casting samples
A part that assembles is a good start. Sample approval should also capture the drawing, finish and production conditions you intend to repeat.
Read the guide ↗
Packing & repeat orders
Protect machined castings during packing and shipment
A good casting can arrive with a damaged bearing seat or chipped coating. Packing should protect the features the inspection report has just accepted.
Read the guide ↗
Inspection records
Build an inspection plan around the part
Specify the characteristic, how it will be checked and which result needs to be recorded. A blanket request for a quality report leaves these decisions open.
Read the guide ↗Drawing files
A quick check before sending your drawing files
A few checks help prevent an old model, missing component or unclear finish note from becoming the basis of a quotation.
Read the guide ↗Component and process illustrations.
More reading
Manufacturing & sourcing.
Alloys
Material selection
Compare casting alloy considerations and explain an existing material requirement.
InspectionHow the features are checked
Dimensions, internal defects, sealing and finished surfaces call for different checks.
Reference toolsDrawings & document examples
Explore a component diagram and downloadable inspection planning templates.
You do not need every answer yet.
Send what you have and point out the questions you want to resolve.