Materials & enquiry requirements
A material name is only the beginning.
Use this guide to organise the questions. It does not select a grade, assess suitability or provide fabrication instructions.
Reference matrix
What to clarify for each material.
Scroll horizontally to read all columns on a small screen. These are enquiry prompts, not compatibility or engineering specifications.
| Material | Cutting discussion | Forming & assembly | Finish & handling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild steel | Discuss grade, supplied condition and edge requirements. | Confirm bend intent and any joining requirements. | Identify surface preparation and intended finish. |
| Stainless steel | Specify grade and which faces will remain visible. | Discuss face orientation, handling and joining scope. | Describe the required appearance and protection. |
| Aluminium | Identify alloy and temper for a suitability review. | Confirm forming intent against the specified material. | Agree appearance, handling and finishing route. |
No material grade, thickness range, bend allowance, tolerance or processing limit is specified here. Confirm requirements with an appropriately qualified reviewer.
Before the first conversation
A short preparation list.
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Keep technical documents
on an agreed route.
A first enquiry can describe a project in general terms. Do not send confidential drawings, intellectual property, controlled information or customer data through this demonstration. Agree a secure document route and sharing permission with the real supplier first.
Prepare a general project enquiry →