Getting an accurate quote for your casting project shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Whether you need a single prototype or thousands of repeat components, the more clearly you scope your project, the more value your supplier can offer.
In this guide, Fowler & Holden shares exactly what to prepare when you request a quote for ferrous casting services – including lead times, cost drivers, and what happens after you submit your RFQ.
What You Should Include in Your RFQ
1. Engineering Drawings (or Photos at Minimum)
If you can upload a casting drawing, that’s ideal. We accept 2D PDFs, 3D STEP files, DWGs, and other formats. The more detail, the more accurate your quote.
If you’re reverse engineering a part, even a photo with key dimensions is a good starting point. We also offer design support and CAD creation if needed.
2. Material and Standards
Let us know whether you need grey iron, ductile iron, or another ferrous material. If there’s a specific standard you require (e.g. EN 1561, EN 1563, ASTM), tell us upfront. This helps ensure both the quote and final casting meet spec.
3. Quantity and Usage
One-off for testing? Repeat production part? Replacement component for field service? Context is key – and it affects both tooling recommendations and unit pricing.
Lead Times, Tolerances & Volume Guidance
1. What’s a Typical Lead Time?
Standard lead times range from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on:
- Pattern/tooling requirements.
- Material availability.
- Batch size.
- Post-casting machining.
For urgent jobs, we’ll do our best to prioritise. We also offer fast-track quoting within 48 hours.
2. Tolerances: What to Expect
Foundry tolerances depend on the casting process and material. Typical dimensions are:
- ±1.5mm for small parts.
- ±3mm for larger castings.
Need tighter tolerances? Let us know in your RFQ – especially if machining will follow casting.
3. Small vs Large Batches
We serve both ends of the scale:
- Prototyping and sample runs.
- Mid – to high-volume production.
- Ongoing call-off and supply agreements.
Hidden Factors That Affect Cost
1. Tooling and Pattern Development
If new tooling is needed, the cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds depending on complexity. This is a one-off charge and becomes reusable for future batches.
We also store patterns for repeat customers, saving time and money long term.
2. Machining or Finishing Needs
If your part needs boring, turning, drilling or coating after casting, let us know. Our in-house machining facility means we can cost this alongside the casting – saving you multiple supplier handoffs.
3. Inspection and Testing
Need a 3.1 cert? Material traceability? Magnetic particle or ultrasonic testing?
These will be cost as part of your quote. Tell us what your industry or customer requires.
What Sets Fowler & Holden Quotes Apart
Fowler & Holden is a UK-based foundry with in-house machining and patternmaking. That means you get:
- Faster quoting from a single team.
- Technical input to improve manufacturability.
- Flexibility on volume and turnaround.
- UK compliance and traceability.
We work with OEMs, utilities, marine engineers, and infrastructure contractors across the UK and beyond. And we’re here to make the quoting process as straightforward as possible.
FAQs
What information do I need to request a quote?
A drawing (or photo), material requirements, quantity, and any special specs (tolerances, testing, machining).
How long does a casting quote usually take?
Fowler & Holden provides quotes within 48 hours when full info is provided.
What factors affect ferrous casting costs?
Material, batch size, tooling needs, tolerances, and finishing requirements.
Can I get a quote for small production runs?
Yes, we quote for one-offs, prototypes, and low-to mid-volume production.
Do you quote for urgent or one-off casting jobs?
Yes. We support urgent projects and one-off legacy part replacements.
Get Started
Ready to request your quote?
Use our RFQ form to get a casting quote within 48 hours:
Contact us
Call: +44 (0)1472 355 316
Email: admin@fowlerandholden.co.uk
