From the first sample to repeat production
The first sample lets you check the design before releasing the batch specification. The part geometry and required setup determine a practical batch size.
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Prototype and repeat-batch decisions
| Decision | First sample | Repeat batch |
|---|---|---|
| Drawing revision | Use the sample to identify fit, function or appearance questions. | Release one controlled revision for the quoted batch; agree how revisions are approved and changed features identified. |
| Setup & route | Review workholding and access while confirming the design. | Confirm the setup and sequence for the released revision, critical datums, and whether the route changes with quantity. |
| Material & finish | Check the specified grade, condition and final appearance. | Retain the approved specification unless changed by agreement; confirm material documents, finish standard, masking and dimensions after treatment. |
| Inspection | Define fit, function and sample acceptance checks. | Identify batch sampling and critical-feature records; confirm method, instrument evidence and report format available. |
| Price & timing | Confirm the prototype price and schedule for the specific part. | Requote the batch quantity and price; production takes 7-14 business days after drawing and order confirmation, including finishing. Add transit separately. |
Approve the batch specification
The batch order should use the approved drawing, material, finish and acceptance plan. If the drawing changes, review the changed features before approving production of the revised part.
- Approved specification
- The approved specification includes revision approval, material documents, finish standard, masking and dimensions after treatment. Keep it unchanged unless a revision is authorized.
- Batch inspection
- The batch inspection plan sets sample quantity and the critical features to record. It also identifies measurement methods, instrument documentation, available report format and documents needed at delivery.
- Quantity and schedule
- The quoted quantity may change the machining route. The order needs a settled setup sequence, critical datums, batch quantity, price and production slot. Orders start at 1 piece. For production timing and transit conditions, use the price and timing row above.
Moving from a prototype to a small production batch
A batch fixture may replace the holding arrangement used for a few samples. The released geometry, functional datums and acceptance requirements still apply, even when the production route changes.
For a housing, a route change still needs to preserve the bore’s relationship to its mounting face and hole pattern. For a plastic part, a different support or inspection timing can change the measured result. The plastic-part measurement guide explains which conditions need to carry into receiving inspection.
Identify the drawing revision and quantity on each repeat order. If the material, treatment or mating assembly has changed, review the affected features before releasing the batch; the earlier sample’s part name does not identify those changes.
Review a similar-looking housing against its new mate
A revised lid register or connector opening may leave the outside of an enclosure looking almost unchanged. The earlier sample approval still belongs to its recorded drawing and mating configuration. For the next batch, identify which bore, rim or mounting results remain applicable and which require another check.
The enclosure interface review helps isolate those changed surfaces. Give the supplier the revised model and drawing together, with the release quantity and the disposition of any earlier stock. Reusing a part name alone does not communicate the change.
Record revision and release
| Stage | Record before continuing |
|---|---|
| Sample evaluation | Sample reference, drawing revision, material and finish; checks performed and open issues. |
| Design change | Changed features, revised files and any effect on price, route, inspection or schedule. |
| Batch release | Approved revision, quantity, sampling plan, required records and confirmation of release. |
Confirm the next order
Compare the same revision, material, finish and quantity, including setup, inspection records, packaging and delivery alongside unit price. Keep exclusions, proposed substitutions and the arrangements for changes, nonconforming parts and repeat releases with the accepted quote.
