Sample specifications and formed geometry

Specify the alloy grade, supplied condition, dimensional tolerances and finish in the final drawing. Define the outside-diameter measurement location and part condition as well as the nominal value.

The illustrated antenna terminal has a central circular opening, four radial arms and separated curved sections around the perimeter. The stepped bends place portions of the outer profile above the plane of the arms. Its outline therefore needs both a plan view and a height or section view to describe it clearly.

For a similar part, show the intended position of each curved section relative to the central opening. Include the perimeter gaps and the direction of the steps. If a gap must align with a feature in the mating assembly, identify that relationship on the drawing rather than relying on an overall diameter alone.

Do not leave the role of the central opening implicit. State whether it locates the terminal, provides clearance or serves another purpose. Likewise, mark the actual electrical contact surfaces instead of assuming that every outer curved section is a contact point.

Sample specifications
ItemSupplied specification
MaterialPhosphor bronze
Sheet thickness0.5 mm
Outside diameter18.9 mm
Visible featuresCentral hole, four radial arms, separated curved perimeter sections and stepped bends

Define the installed condition before discussing changes

Provide a section through the assembled parts or a photograph showing the terminal in place. Mark the insertion direction and any surfaces that must remain clear. This gives the drawing review a practical reference for assessing proposed changes to the hole, arm width, formed height or perimeter profile.

If the design relies on elastic contact, specify the free position and the installed position, plus the required force or acceptance method. If the terminal is rigidly retained, identify the retention method and its locating surfaces. These are different requirements and should not be inferred from a similar-looking sample.

Top view of the antenna terminal showing radial arms and separated perimeter arcs
Plan view for discussing the opening, arm layout and perimeter gaps.

Keep base material and finish as separate requirements

The specified base material for this part is phosphor bronze. Confirm its exact grade and supplied condition for the mechanical and electrical duties of the connection. State the surface finish separately: the warm metal color does not establish that the part is gold plated.

Where the connection needs plating, define the contact area, coating system and acceptance criteria. If another region will be soldered, identify it separately. This lets the finish specification address the relevant connection surfaces rather than using color as the acceptance requirement.

Send an existing material specification if one is available. Otherwise, describe the mating component, operating environment and functional requirements, and mark the material or finish as open for review. Proposed substitutions should be agreed before the drawing is released for manufacture.

What to include in an antenna terminal RFQ

Keep the RFQ focused on the part and its assembly. The following information provides a useful starting package; unresolved items can be listed as questions.

For edges near a mating surface, indicate where burrs or sharp edges would interfere with assembly. Where the curved sections could become entangled or distorted during handling, state how the parts will be loaded into the next operation so packaging can be discussed with the quote.

Antenna terminal RFQ checklist
RequirementInformation to provideWhat it clarifies
Part definitionRevision-controlled drawing, 3D file or sample photographsWhich version and geometry are being reviewed
Central opening and armsHole size and position, arm layout, width and thicknessThe relationship between the center and the outer profile
Formed perimeterCurved profile, gaps, steps and finished heightThe three-dimensional envelope and orientation
Mating arrangementAssembly section, insertion direction and contact surfacesWhere the part must touch, locate or clear another component
Material and finishGrade, condition, thickness and any coating requirementsThe specification to use for quotation and samples
AcceptanceCritical dimensions, edge requirements and functional checksWhat will be checked and under which conditions
Supply planSample quantity, production quantities and packaging needsThe requested quotation and delivery scope

Approve the sample in its mating assembly

Plan sample review around the agreed drawing and the actual mating parts. Check the opening, formed height, perimeter clearance and orientation, then verify the relevant contact or retention function in the installed position.

If electrical measurements or RF checks are required, define the method, assembly condition and pass criteria before sample approval. Dimensional acceptance, contact acceptance and antenna-system acceptance should each have a stated requirement and an assigned test responsibility.

After approval, retain the agreed drawing revision, material and finish specification, inspection requirements and reference sample identification with the purchase specification. Changes to any of those inputs should be reviewed against the same assembly requirements.

Send the part and the assembly context

Send a drawing, sketch or sample photographs, the mating arrangement and your expected quantity through the drawing review and quote form. Mark uncertain dimensions, material or finish choices as questions. For broader process requirements, see custom metal stamping and surface finishing.