A sheet metal fabrication RFQ should let the supplier understand the enclosure geometry, process route, material, finish, hardware and inspection basis before quote review starts.
Use this checklist for fabricated enclosures, chassis panels, covers, brackets and assemblies that may need laser cutting, press brake bending, PEM inserts, riveting, welding, finishing and sample approval.
Short answer: what a fabrication RFQ should include
For sheet metal fabrication quotes, send drawings plus a brief that states product type, sheet material, thickness, finish, quantity, required operations, hardware, sample approval and inspection points.
If the part is an enclosure or chassis, include board clearances, connector cutouts, cover access, mounting points and visible faces so engineering can review fit and finish assumptions.
- Files: 2D drawing, STEP/STP assembly, DXF/DWG flats if available and revision level.
- Processes: laser cutting, punching, bending, countersinking, welding, riveting, PEM insertion or simple assembly.
- Materials: steel, stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized sheet, SPCC or buyer-approved alternatives.
- Release needs: samples, first article checks, cosmetic standards, packaging and compliance records.
Define geometry, cutouts and bending risks
Laser-cut openings, press brake bends, formed tabs, louvers, countersinks and close-to-bend holes can change price and manufacturability. Mark these features clearly instead of relying only on a 3D model.
For enclosures, also show cover direction, removable panels, bracket holes, rack or wall mounting and any surfaces that must align with connectors or assemblies.
- Identify critical cutouts for connectors, displays, switches, vents and cable entry.
- Show bend direction, inside radius, flange height and bend-to-hole risks.
- Mark PEM nuts, standoffs, rivets, weld nuts, hinges and screw types.
- Call out critical dimensions separately from general fabrication tolerances.
Connect material, finish and release control
Material and finish choices affect bending behavior, corrosion resistance, appearance and inspection. Put them in the RFQ before pricing, not after samples are made.
Sampling and release control should match part risk. A cosmetic enclosure, a bracket hidden inside equipment and a chassis with connector alignment do not need the same inspection plan.
- State material grade, thickness and whether equivalent materials are allowed.
- Define powder coating, plating, anodizing, brushing, deburring, silkscreen or masked areas.
- List sample quantity, approval owner, first-article dimensions and cosmetic expectations.
- Attach RoHS, REACH or material records if they are required for shipment.
| RFQ field | What to include | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Drawing package | 2D drawing, STEP/STP model, flat files if available and revision level | Prevents quoting from incomplete geometry |
| Product context | Enclosure, chassis, cover, bracket, tray, panel or assembled sheet metal part | Sets the right fit, access and inspection assumptions |
| Cutting details | Connector cutouts, vents, slots, countersinks, louvers and edge cleanup | Affects laser cutting time, burr control and visible quality |
| Bending details | Bend direction, radius, flange height, close holes and formed tabs | Controls press brake risk and fit after forming |
| Hardware and assembly | PEM inserts, standoffs, rivets, welds, hinges, screws and supplied hardware | Changes process route, cost and sample inspection |
| Material and thickness | Material grade, thickness, acceptable substitutes and sheet range | Affects strength, weight, bending and finish compatibility |
| Finish and appearance | Visible faces, color, texture, coating, anodizing, plating, brushing and marking | Keeps cosmetic and functional surfaces clear |
| Approval plan | Sample quantity, first article dimensions, compliance records and packaging | Makes production release criteria visible before quote approval |