What to Include in Your RFQ for Iron Castings

If you’re requesting a quote from an iron foundry, the quality of your RFQ (Request for Quotation) can make or break the process. A clear, complete brief helps the foundry understand your needs, avoid miscommunication, and quote accurately the first time – without delays or costly assumptions.

At Fowler & Holden, we receive hundreds of RFQs every month from project managers, buyers, engineers, and OEMs across the UK. We know what makes a great RFQ – and we also know what holds quotes back.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to include when preparing your iron casting RFQ, and how to ensure a smooth quoting process from the very first enquiry.

What to Include in Your Iron Casting RFQ

Let’s break it down step-by-step.

1. Casting Drawing or CAD File

The most important part of your RFQ is the drawing. We need a 2D technical drawing or – ideally – a 3D CAD model to assess geometry, dimensions, and critical features.
Acceptable formats:

2D PDFs with all dimensions and notes.
3D STEP, IGES or Parasolid files.
Photos or samples (for reverse engineering only).

2. Material Specification

Let us know the iron grade required. Common choices include:

EN-GJL-250 (Grey iron).
EN-GJS-500-7 (SG iron).
Ni-Resist or high-performance alloys.

If you’re unsure, describe the application and environment – we’ll help you select the right grade.

3. Volume and Batch Details

Are you looking for:

A prototype or one-off?
A short production run?
A repeat batch order?

Including this info helps us assess tooling setup and batch scheduling.

Tolerances and Finishes

Clearly define:

Tolerances (e.g. ±1.0mm or ±0.05mm for machined faces).
Surface finish (as-cast, machined, shot-blasted).
Machined features (holes, bores, faces, threads).

If you only have rough tolerances now, that’s okay – we can help refine them based on casting capability.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Here are some of the most frequent issues that cause delays or inaccurate quotes:

Missing Drawings

An RFQ without a drawing leads to guesswork. Always upload a casting drawing. If the design is confidential, we’re happy to sign an NDA.

No Material Info

Specifying “iron” alone isn’t enough. Grey iron, SG iron, and other grades behave very differently. Let us know the standard you’re working to (e.g. EN1561).

No Volume Guidance

Even a rough idea of quantity helps us assess if it’s a one-off, batch, or framework quote. Tooling costs vary dramatically depending on volume.

Confusing Terminology

Be clear when using terms like “core,” “riser,” or “machined finish.” If in doubt, describe the function of the part, not just its geometry.

Tips from Our Engineers

Every day, our team works with clients to turn ideas into castings. Here’s what they suggest:

Engage Early

If you’re still in design stages, send us a draft drawing. We’ll help you design for manufacturability – reducing defects, machining time, and cost.

Ask About Lead Times

Let us know if you’re working to a deadline. We offer rapid cast delivery on request and can schedule short runs fast.

Include Supporting Info

Things like:

Where the part is used (industry/environment).
Mechanical loads it will face.
Any coating or heat treatment requirements.

This context can lead to better material choices and fewer iterations.

Volume Requirements

Let us know:

Total units needed.
Batch size per delivery (if phased).
Potential for future repeats.

This helps us determine whether to recommend wood, resin, or metal patterns – and how to price them effectively.

FAQs

What should be included in my RFQ?

A technical drawing, material spec, tolerances, surface finish, volume requirements, and your delivery deadline.

How do I submit CAD drawings?

You can upload files directly through our RFQ form or email them with your enquiry.

What tolerance info should I include?

Add tolerance requirements for all critical dimensions – if you’re unsure, we’ll advise.

Can you help improve my design?

Yes – we offer free design-for-manufacture reviews to improve castability and reduce cost.

How long will it take to get a quote?

Usually 24 – 48 hours from receiving full information. Faster if it’s a repeat project or urgent.

Let’s Talk About Your Casting Project

Whether you’re ready to order or exploring options, we’re here to help

Send us your drawings, questions, and targets – and let’s build something together.