1. Start with the molded part—not the cheapest machine
Specify resin, molded-part weight, number of cavities, projected area, cycle time and mold geometry. These determine whether the candidate machine offers sufficient clamping force, injection capacity and platen space. Two machines with the same nominal tonnage can have very different injection units and clamp stroke.
2. Confirm the model configuration
Request the full model code, manufacturing year, controller model, screw diameter, injection pressure, tie-bar spacing, minimum and maximum mold height and ejector specification. Brand and tonnage alone are insufficient. Ask for photos of the actual nameplate and control interface.
3. Assess operating condition
Look for hydraulic leakage, unusual pump noise, tie-bar wear, platen damage, screw and barrel condition, controller alarms, electrical modifications and repeated faults. A warm running demonstration can hide problems seen during cold starts, so define which tests are needed.
4. Understand maintenance and spare parts
Ask whether maintenance records exist, what has been replaced, and whether critical components can still be sourced. Confirm your technicians can operate the controller language and that local power and cooling utilities are suitable.
5. Calculate landed cost
Add dismantling, inland haulage, freight, import clearance, rigging, commissioning and possible repair costs to the machine purchase price. A very low ex-works price can disappear once a crane, container and specialist transport are required.
RFQ checklist
- Required clamping force and injection capacity
- Acceptable brands, models and machine age
- Mold dimensions and tie-bar spacing
- Control language, voltage and frequency
- Need for robot, hopper dryer, chiller and spare parts
- Destination, target budget and required testing