Know what the sample represents
Identify the drawing revision, alloy, process route and finish used for the sample. Establish whether it came from the intended production tool and whether any temporary operation was used. A hand-adjusted sample can help a design review, but that adjustment must not disappear from the discussion.
Keep sample identification on the inspection records and photographs. If several versions are circulating between purchasing and engineering, a clear reference prevents an old sample becoming the accidental standard.
Review the important results together
Check the report against the critical drawing characteristics rather than looking only for a pass statement. For a housing, the locating features, sealing face and mounting pattern may need particular attention. Assembly observations are also useful: record interference, uneven seating or fastener access problems.
Review finish and cleanliness in the delivered condition. If the sample was supplied unfinished, schedule a separate finish approval before treating the entire part as released.
Close open items explicitly
Record accepted deviations, required changes and any further evidence needed. A comment in an email such as “looks good” can be interpreted differently from approval of a named drawing revision and sample condition.
Where a change affects tooling or machining, establish whether another sample is needed. Keep the approved reference and records accessible for later orders, especially when a different person places the repeat purchase.
For your inquiry
Sample approval is a decision about a defined part and condition. It does not mean every future process change can be made without review.
Related information
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