In the field of automotive parts injection molding, obtaining a reasonable quote is a core issue. It involves complex cost calculations and market considerations, and is crucial to both company profits and project success. So, how can one obtain a reasonable quote? This article will deeply analyze quotes for automotive parts injection molding, providing comprehensive guidance on aspects such as part characteristics, cost structure, and obtaining and evaluating quotes.
II. Part Characteristics and Cost Drivers
1. Classification of Auto Parts
1.1 By Function
Auto parts include structural parts, such as those in the frame, which require high-strength materials because they support the entire vehicle body. Transmission parts, such as gears, also require high precision and wear resistance. Seals, on the other hand, require excellent sealing, while exterior parts must be aesthetically pleasing and have a high-quality finish.
1.2 By Material
Parts can be divided into metal and plastic. Plastics are further categorized into general-purpose plastics (such as PP and PE) and engineering plastics (such as PA and POM). Engineering plastic parts are more expensive but offer superior performance.
1.3 Classification by complexity
Simple accessories like small buckles, complex accessories like those next to the engine block, or complex parts in the interior, are not easy to design and manufacture. car door handle (3)
2. Cost drivers of various accessories
2.1 High-precision engine accessories
The cost of this type of accessory mainly depends on the mold accuracy and material. The mold is made with special precision because engine accessories have strict tolerance requirements and special materials with high temperature resistance and high strength are used.
2.2 Appearance parts
The cost of appearance parts is affected by surface treatment and material. In order to look good, they need to be finely ground, polished, painted or electroplated. These processes are complicated and the cost is high. The material must also be of good quality.
2.3 Other types of accessories
The cost of transmission parts is related to precision and wear resistance. Seals must be able to seal well and be resistant to chemical corrosion. These special requirements of materials increase the cost.
III. Cost Structure Analysis
1. Raw Material Cost
Common Materials: Automotive parts injection molding uses general-purpose plastics (PP, PE) and engineering plastics (PA, POM), which have different properties and are used for different parts.
Price Fluctuations: Crude oil prices, supply and demand, production capacity, and new materials can affect prices.
Procurement Strategy: Long-term procurement offers stable prices but requires capital and storage, while spot procurement offers flexibility but is subject to significant price fluctuations.
2. Mold Cost
Design: A reasonable design impacts costs, and good parting surface and runner design are crucial.
Manufacturing Process: CNC and EDM offer high precision but increase costs.
Mold Material: H13, P20 steel, and other materials have different properties and prices, so choose based on your needs.
Mold Life: Wear and maintenance costs affect the cost of a single part.
3. Processing Cost
Injection Molding Machine Selection: The clamping force and shot volume must match the part, as costs vary depending on tonnage.
Equipment Depreciation: Use either the straight-line or accelerated depreciation method, taking into account production performance.
Energy consumption: Process parameters affect electricity and oil consumption, so a balance must be struck between energy consumption and efficiency.
Labor costs: Calculated based on a labor-hour rate, including training, and are related to operational complexity.
Production efficiency: Cycle time and yield rate influence costs; improving efficiency reduces them.
4. Post-processing costs
Processes: These include grinding, polishing, painting, electroplating, and assembly.
Cost calculation: Cost calculation methods vary for each process, depending on factors such as precision, labor hours, and materials.
IV. Quotation Obtaining and Evaluation
1. Supplier Selection
Qualification Certifications: Check for certifications such as ISO 9001 and IATF 16949, which provide a basis for quality assurance.
Production Capacity: Evaluate the tonnage range of the injection molding machine and the size of the mold manufacturing workshop to ensure they can meet production needs.
Industry Experience: Review past automotive parts project cases and collaborations with renowned brands.
Innovation Capacity: Examine the ability to innovate new injection molding processes and mold design improvements.
2. How to Obtain a Quote
Document Preparation: Provide 3D/2D drawings, material specifications, surface treatment, quantity forecast, quality inspection, and packaging and shipping requirements.
Multiple Quote Rounds: Initially conduct a preliminary inquiry, then discuss and adjust to ensure the quote is reasonable and accurate.
3. Quote Evaluation
Key Analysis Points: Pay attention to cost details, quality assurance clauses, and delivery time.
Identify Issues: Low quotes may indicate poor quality or unreasonable cost allocation. High quotes require understanding.
Comparing Quotes: Compare and analyze the differences in quotes from different suppliers and the reasons behind them to find the best value.
Quotes for automotive parts injection molding and injection mold processing require comprehensive consideration. When selecting a supplier, consider their qualifications, capabilities, experience, and innovation. Obtaining a quote requires detailed documentation and multiple rounds of quotations. Quote evaluation requires analyzing key points, identifying issues, comparing different quotes, and selecting the best solution.
