The starting point
A useful first inquiry includes the application, finished dimensions, quantity and operating conditions. If the material is unknown, describe the job and the current problem. Separate essential requirements from preferences so the proposed construction can be reviewed against the right priorities.
01 / Buyer checklist
The minimum brief for a first quotation
| Information | What to provide | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Equipment, process, contact product and problem. | Defines the function the part must perform. |
| Dimensions | Finished length, width, thickness if known, units, shape and tolerances. | Distinguishes the part from a nominal tray size. |
| Quantity | Samples, first order and expected repeat demand. | Separates development from production supply. |
| Conditions | Temperature profile, duration, pressure, movement and cleaning. | Identifies construction limits and trial requirements. |
| Destination and timing | Delivery country and desired sample or production date. | Supports scheduling and logistics discussions. |
| Documentation | Intended use, market and required technical or test documents. | Allows product and document scope to be checked. |
02 / Buyer checklist
Describe the finished part clearly
Measure the usable inner area of the tray or equipment, not only its outside dimensions. Identify the working face, corner radii, cutouts, holes and regions that must remain open.
Give units and critical tolerances. Include the drawing revision. If dimensions come from a used part, identify wear, stretch or distortion instead of assuming its original dimensions.
- Mats: length, width, corners, edge finish and required clearance.
- Cut parts: outer profile, holes, reference edges and orientation.
- Adhesive-backed material: backing location, bonded surface and exposure.
03 / Buyer checklist
Describe the full operating cycle
Include normal temperature and short peaks, their duration and frequency, and whether the material touches a hot surface. Describe movement, pressure, bending or rubbing.
List contact substances and the cleaning method. For printed or laminated parts, state which side contacts the product. Flag unknown conditions for follow-up rather than guessing values.
04 / Buyer checklist
Agree what the sample must demonstrate
- Fit: dimensions, clearances, holes and flatness on the actual support.
- Function: release, retention, airflow and surface marking.
- Handling: installation, removal and acceptable flexibility.
- Inspection: coating, edges and changes after the agreed cycle and cleaning.
- Order confirmation: drawing revision, sample identifier and documentation.
05 / Buyer checklist
Use this inquiry outline
Copy the relevant fields into your message. “Not yet known” is useful when you need help specifying a material.
- Application / equipment:
- Product or substance in contact:
- Current material and problem:
- Finished dimensions, units and tolerances:
- Drawing revision or reference:
- Normal / peak temperature and exposure time:
- Pressure, motion and cleaning:
- Printing, adhesive, edge or packaging requirements:
- Sample quantity / first order quantity:
- Destination country and target date:
- Required technical or test documents:
Sources & scope
The selection steps are SIFMAT buyer guidance. External references explain material principles and examples; they do not establish the performance or compliance of a SIFMAT grade.
- SIFMAT — Custom Solutions
Existing fabrication scope and project information. This checklist is an inquiry aid, not a quotation or supply commitment.
Your next step
Send Your Requirements
Include the fields you can confirm in the contact form. For drawings, note the reference and ask our team how to share the file.
Send Your Requirements