What Information is Needed to Quote an RMB Aerospace Project?
Before we quote a project, we like to know find out what your needs are so we can give you the best solution possible. Below are some of the questions we ask and the reasons behind them.
Do you have a drawing or model of the part? Many of the questions listed below may be answered with a part drawing. Having this drawing helps us to determine size, shape, and any subcomponent assembly requirements.
What is the part number? The part number will serve as a unique identifier for your part in our project management system. It also allows us to see if we have any manufacturing history on that part.
What material is preferred for the part? Does it need to be fire retardant or have smoke toxicity compliance? We use a variety of nylons to rotationally mold or selective laser sinter parts. They have a variety of characteristics such as fire retardant, clear color, etc. For a complete list of our materials and their properties, click here.
Process specification (if applicable): We need the specification information to be compliant to the specification processing and/or quality assurance requirements.
The application of the part: If not otherwise specified, we will recommend the appropriate manufacturing method and material type based on the part application. We are well versed in manufacturing parts for ECS ducting, tanks, drip pans, and other applications.
On what aircraft will the part be used? If the process specification information is not known, this information also helps us to determine the compliance to the specification processing and/or quality assurance requirements.
Envelope dimensions/diameter: There are dimensional restrictions on our rotational molding and additive manufacturing machines. Additionally, price is heavily influenced by envelope size.
Is it an existing or new build? If so, what is the current process and production material? Our in-house design engineers are experts in converting existing designs into parts that can be manufactured with our processes. They will work with your engineers to decide the best design and materials for new or converted parts. This information also helps us to assess whether a part is a good candidate for conversion to our materials and processes based on functionality of existing design.
Estimated annual quantity: Knowing the part quantity determines the most cost-effective tooling strategy. Based on your needs, we will suggest options such as creating additional fixtures for large part quantities, or using additive manufacturing methods for smaller quantities, to name a few.
What are the minimum and maximum temperature and pressure requirements of the equipment? Understanding these requirements allows us to determine the appropriate material and process if not otherwise specified. Thermoplastics are not the solution for every application. Before we engage in meaningful discussion about your project, we want to ensure that our materials and processes can be a viable solution for your needs.
What fluids will be used in the part? The type of material we use will depend on the service. As stated above, we use this information to determine if our materials are capable of withstanding the operating environment of the part. Our materials have exceptional chemical resistance, but thermoplastics are not always the best choice for certain fluids. For a complete list of our materials and their properties, click here.
What subassembly items does the part require? We have the ability to install insulation, fittings, brackets and accessories during post-production. We also have the ability to weld, bond, insulate, rivet, paint, and install gussets to completely finish a part. Knowing your subassembly requirements ahead of time gives us the opportunity to get pricing from vendors and order those components well before production.
What is your preferred method of shipping and where should product be shipped? We work with all major domestic and international freight carriers. If it is an international shipment, export licensing may be required, which will factor into the quote. It is also important to know if there are any packaging requirements, such as specific quantities per bag, or tagging of product. This information prepares us for ordering special packaging and staffing enough team members to fulfill those needs.
What are the quality and inspection requirements? We are very experienced in the AS-9100 standard first article process. If there are any additional special inspection requirements, it helps us to know ahead of time to acquire the appropriate equipment and have the processes in place to fulfill the request.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about the following information.
