The same request – "a glass-filled flame-retardant PA66" – can correspond to more than a dozen different formulations. The more complete the information, the more accurate the quote and the higher the chance that samples pass on the first try. We suggest spending a few minutes going through the checklist below before you request a quote.

1. Part and application

1. What the part is and which product it goes into (e.g. connectors, circuit breaker housings, power tool housings, automotive clips).

2. Approximate part size, and minimum and maximum wall thickness.

3. Whether drawings or photos of sample parts are available.

2. Performance requirements

1. Service temperature range, and whether the part is exposed to heat long-term.

2. Type of loading: load-bearing, snap-fit assembly, drop impact, vibration.

3. Flame retardancy: whether it is needed, the rating (e.g. UL94 V-0) and the corresponding thickness.

4. Special requirements such as electrical properties, chemical resistance and weatherability.

3. Color and appearance

1. Natural, black or a specified color, and whether color matching to a color plaque is required.

2. Whether it is a cosmetic part, and any requirements on fiber floating or gloss.

4. Certifications and regulations

1. Whether environmental requirements such as halogen-free, RoHS or REACH apply.

2. Whether a certified grade such as one with a UL Yellow Card is required, and whether the end customer specifies a brand or grade.

5. Material currently in use

1. Current grade or its datasheet.

2. Current problems: high cost, warpage, cracking, failing flame-retardant tests, unstable supply, etc.

6. Purchasing information

1. First order and monthly volume, and whether purchasing will be long-term and stable.

2. Requirements for packaging, lead time, payment and delivery address.

3. Whether sampling and testing are needed first.

7. Why this information matters

Service temperature and loading determine the base resin and glass fiber content; flame retardancy and color determine the flame-retardant system; certification requirements determine whether a substitute is possible; volume determines price and stocking arrangements. If any one of these is missing, it often takes several rounds of back-and-forth to fill in.

You don't need to fill everything in at once – just provide what you can, and we'll follow up with questions based on the information. You're welcome to send your requirements to RJF Plastics via the "Submit Material Requirements" form on our website or the contact page.