Steel grade
Specify the required mold steel grade and whether an equivalent grade may be proposed for approval.
Engineering Compatibility
Mold Interfaces & InspectionChoose Components Against the Target Press
DME imperial and HASCO metric are component-system options, not automatic regional settings. Confirm locating, ejection, cooling, and electrical interfaces against the target press drawings and approved mold design. SPI classes below are reference classifications, not a tool-life warranty.
EXAMPLE COMPONENT SYSTEMDME / Imperial option
Specify required thread and coupler interfaces against the press and plant connections.
Locating Ring: Confirm locating and platen requirements against the target press drawing.
Ejectors: Confirm ejector components and dimensions against the approved mold design.
Sprue Bushing: Confirm nozzle and sprue interface against the press documentation.
Agree the required inspection method, report format, material certificates, and delivery records before the quotation is approved.
Discuss Press Interfaces
Quality VerificationInspection scope by agreement
Confirm equipment and reports per project
Project Requirements
Define Tooling AcceptanceConfirm the Requirements in the Contract
If your project specifies an SPI class, share the applicable standard and edition. We can review it with the RFQ; scope, inspection, acceptance, and any tool-life commitment must be confirmed in the written agreement.
Production and tool life
State expected production quantity and the required tool-life target, with operating assumptions where known.
Steel and heat treatment
Specify required steel grades, heat treatment, and the material or process records to be supplied.
Mechanisms and components
List required slides, lifters, inserts, cooling, ejection, and press-interface components.
Trials and maintenance acceptance
Define trial samples, inspection criteria, maintenance scope, and the records needed for acceptance.
Tool Steel Requirements
Mold Steel SelectionConfirm Material Against Project Requirements
Steel grade, heat treatment, and supporting records are confirmed against the approved project specification and supplier documentation.
Heat treatment
Define the required material condition and heat-treatment scope against the approved specification.
Material records
List any mill certificates, heat-treatment records, or other documents required, then confirm availability and delivery scope.
Application conditions
Review the resin, production target, surface finish, and operating environment when selecting material.
Surface Textures & Optics
Surface Finish PlanningDefine the Finish and Acceptance Sample
Describe the finish required for each part area. For textured surfaces, identify the texture source and affected area; for all finishes, agree the acceptance sample and project criteria before tooling approval.
Polished finish
Set the cosmetic target and review against an approved sample.
Textured finish
Specify texture source, area, and acceptance sample.
General Interface Reference
DME (Imperial) vs HASCO (Metric)Examples for Press-Drawing Review
DME / imperial and HASCO / metric are component-system options, not geographic defaults. The entries below are a requirements checklist; confirm exact parts and dimensions against the target press drawings, current supplier catalogs, and approved mold design.
| Hardware Parameter | North America (DME Imperial) | Europe & Global (HASCO Metric) | Production Risk / Mitigation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Locating and mounting | DME Specify required dimensions and components | HASCO Specify required dimensions and components | Check against the target press and platen drawings. |
| Cooling connections | DME Specify thread and coupler requirements | HASCO Specify thread and coupler requirements | Confirm compatibility with the plant's hoses and connections. |
| Ejection and guidance | DME Specify pins and guide components | HASCO Specify pins and guide components | Confirm replacement and maintenance requirements. |
| Lifting and clamping | DME Specify lifting and clamping interfaces | HASCO Specify lifting and clamping interfaces | Review against approved handling and press requirements. |
| Electrical and hot runner | DME Specify connectors, controller, and voltage | HASCO Specify connectors, controller, and voltage | Confirm equipment compatibility before design approval. |
Engineering Standards Takeaways (Quick Summary for Buyers & Audits)
1. Confirm press interfaces:Share the target press and platen drawings so interface requirements can be reviewed and included in the approved design.
2. Specify spare parts:List requested wear parts and quantities in the RFQ; confirm supply in the quotation.
3. Request material records:State the required steel grade and certificates or heat-treatment records in the RFQ, then confirm their scope before production.
Unsure which SPI class or regional fittings suit your press?
Email the target press details, preferred component system, production target, and inspection/report needs. Do not attach confidential CAD before a written NDA is in place.