Define What the Supplier Is Quoting
A custom mold base RFQ should define the supplied plates, machining, components, assembly and inspection. A mold base is not automatically a complete working mold. Cavities, cores, a complete hot runner system, hydraulic cylinders and other purchased mechanisms need an explicit supply decision.
Lichengda accepts non-standard injection, hot runner, two-color/multi-color, inverted, stripper plate, hydraulic core-pull and die-casting base inquiries. Identify the configuration and machine interfaces rather than relying on a general precision mold base description.
Provide a Controlled Drawing Package
Send PDF, STEP or DWG files with a clear drawing revision and the assembly/component relationship. Identify the governing drawing or model, units, datums, critical interfaces and any standards and revisions that form part of acceptance. Resolve conflicting dimensions before production approval.
For a change after quotation, issue a numbered revision and change list. Review its effect on material, machining, components, inspection and schedule, then confirm the revised scope in writing. A quotation for an earlier revision does not automatically include later work.
Use a Scope Checklist
| RFQ item | Details to identify |
|---|---|
| Plates and material | Plate identification, steel grade, delivery condition and finished dimensions |
| Machining | Pockets, bores, hole patterns, threads, water channels and other drawing features |
| Fits and geometry | Datums, critical hole locations, mating features and geometric requirements |
| Components | Buyer-supplied and supplier-supplied items, including guides and purchased mechanisms |
| Assembly | Machining-only supply or agreed guide pillar/bushing assembly; other assembly separately defined |
| Inspection | Critical characteristics, dimensional/CMM report scope and any required material records |
| Quantity and logistics | Sets, destination, required schedule, packing and delivery responsibilities |
Review Configuration-Specific Interfaces
For a hot runner base, identify manifold/nozzle interfaces, plate relationships and the scope of supplied hardware. For a two-color or multi-color base, provide the locating, indexing or transfer arrangement and its machine interfaces. For a hydraulic core-pull design, separate cylinder supply from the machining and interfaces that support it.
Injection and die-casting bases require their own design review. Do not assume a shared material specification, hole layout or assembly scope simply because two designs have similar overall dimensions.
Agree Capacity, Inspection and Schedule
Published mold base capacity is a footprint up to 1500×1200 mm and approximately 8 tonnes per set. Height, geometry, handling and the actual precision requirements need drawing review. Define feature-specific acceptance rather than assigning one tolerance to every dimension and every size.
Typical production is 7–15 working days, or 15–25 working days for large or complex projects. Working days exclude weekends and statutory public holidays in China. The clock starts on the next working day after formal PO receipt, final drawing/specification approval and any applicable deposit receipt are all complete. Transit time is separate.
Compare Quotations on the Same Basis
Compare the approved revision, grades and conditions, finished plate dimensions, included machining, components, assembly and inspection. Ask for open points and exclusions to be identified. Payment terms, Incoterms with their named place, freight, packing and acceptance conditions belong in the actual quotation or contract.
A unit price alone does not show whether two suppliers have quoted the same work. Use the quality and documentation scope and the custom mold base specification as a checklist for what needs to be made explicit.
Download the RFQ Outline
Download the editable mold base RFQ outline. Complete the fields you know and mark open requirements as to be confirmed.
Prepare a mold base inquiry, then attach the brief, completed outline and PDF/STEP/DWG drawings in your email app. The draft website prepares files and an email draft locally; the buyer reviews and sends the email.