This guide explains what equipment manufacturers should include in an RFQ for custom stainless steel panels, including drawings, material grades, tolerances, surface finishes, and production quantities.
RFQ Checklist for Custom Stainless Steel Panels in Commercial Kitchen Equipment
When requesting a quote for custom stainless steel equipment panels, provide drawings, material grade, thickness, tolerances, surface finish, and expected quantities. Clear specifications help manufacturers review fabrication requirements and identify missing information before pricing.
1. What Information Should Your RFQ Include?
A request for quotation (RFQ) should define the part you want manufactured and the conditions the supplier must meet.
| RFQ Item | Information to Provide |
|---|---|
| Drawings | 2D PDF drawings and 3D models when available |
| Part identification | Part number and current drawing revision |
| Material | Stainless steel grade and thickness |
| Dimensions | Overall dimensions, cutouts, holes, and bends |
| Tolerances | Critical dimensions and inspection requirements |
| Surface finish | Brushed, polished, or other specified finish |
| Quantity | Prototype, first production lot, and expected repeat orders |
| Delivery | Target date, destination, and packaging requirements |
If some information is not yet available, mark it as pending rather than making assumptions.
2. Identify the Component, Not Just the Equipment
Commercial kitchen equipment may contain several custom metal components.
For example:
-
Exterior stainless steel side panels
-
Equipment access doors and covers
-
Structural brackets and mounting plates
-
Sheet metal housings and cabinet components
Identify the part being sourced. Include assembly drawings where the panel must fit with other components.
This helps the fabricator evaluate the manufacturing scope without confusing metal component fabrication with complete equipment manufacturing.
3. Specify Critical Dimensions and Visible Surfaces
For panels with mounting holes, doors, hinges, or adjoining components, show the dimensions that affect fit.
If the panel has a visible exterior surface, identify that face on the drawing.
Also specify the required finish, appearance requirements, and whether protective packaging is needed.
Manufacturers should review tolerance feasibility before confirming production requirements.
4. Separate Samples From Repeat Production
An RFQ should distinguish development quantities from recurring production demand.
For example, a buyer may request prices for an initial sample, a pilot batch, and a larger repeat order.
These are different quotation conditions. Material usage, setups, tooling, inspection, and packaging can affect the cost at each quantity.
If annual demand is known, include it. If demand is uncertain, provide a realistic estimate and identify it as provisional.
5. Control Drawing Revisions
Use a clear part number and revision code.
If the drawing changes after quotation, inform the supplier before production. Confirm how the change affects tooling, cost, sample approval, and delivery.
For repeat orders, identify the approved drawing revision rather than relying on an old quotation alone.
6. How Juduo Reviews Custom Panel Projects
Juduo manufactures build-to-print metal components for equipment manufacturers.
Its manufacturing processes include laser cutting, CNC turret punching, bending, welding, riveting, tapping, and polishing.
Projects are reviewed based on the customer's drawings, material requirements, technical specifications, quantities, and manufacturing feasibility.
The approved drawing or sample forms the basis for subsequent production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a quotation without a complete 3D model?
Yes. A 2D drawing, sketch, or sample may be sufficient for an initial technical review. Additional information may be needed before final quotation or production.
Should I specify the stainless steel grade?
Yes. Specify the material grade and thickness whenever possible. Do not assume that all stainless steel grades are interchangeable.
Do I need to provide an annual quantity?
It is helpful but not always required. Estimated repeat demand allows the supplier to consider the manufacturing method and different production quantities.
Request a Custom Metal Panel Quotation
If you are sourcing stainless steel panels, covers, housings, or mounting components for commercial equipment, share your available drawings and project specifications with Juduo.