What I Have Learnt From CNC Prototype
The process of CNC prototype manufacturing is checking drawings, quoting price, signature on the invoice, placing an order, stock, programming, CNC machining, assembly, polishing, spray painting, silk screen, install, quality checking and shipment. Here I want to write some thoughts about quotation.
When customer send 3D drawing to require an enquiry, generally they would make a manufacturing requirement sheet including material , quantity, color, surface finish, improtant dimension, tolerance. But many customers just give us a 3D drawing without any explanation. You need to talk with customers and ask them make a manufacturing list to us.
When checking drawing, if some technology or material haven’t been used before, you need to consult supplier. If this technology or material you don’t have, please discuss with customer to change technology or material. If customer must use this techmology or material, we just don’t receive this order. The most ideal status is that all necessary information have been given, so that we can quote quickly.
When customers accept your quotation and pay 50% deposit, you can arrange manufacture. Something must be noticed: whether quotation drawing is final drawing or not. Are there any important positions need to know? These two points are very important. If it is not final drawing, you have to remake although you have finish. If you ignore the improtant position , you need to rework. It will increase manufacturing cost.
All in all, if you do well in preliminary work, the manufacturing process will have no problem.