1.  A CLEAR DESCRIPTION OF YOUR NEEDS

Share the scope of the project. Is this a complete gear, cut teeth only, or are there any specific exceptions?

Description should include:

• Quantity: What are the initial requirements and estimated annual usage?

• Delivery requirements: Immediate, scheduled releases, future needs?

2.  A DETAILED MANUFACTURING DRAWING (PRINT)

A clean, legible print file is very helpful in providing an accurate and fast quote. A PDF file is acceptable, but an editable format, like a DXF file, is even better.

Prints should include:

• Materials

• Heat treatment requirements

• Complete gear geometry

If a print is not available, we can provide a budgetary quote using photos.  Photos should illustrate scale. For example, a ruler laid across the part or other comparison is helpful.

3.  QUALITY REQUIREMENTS, DOCUMENTATION & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Gear tooth quality level

• PPAP

• Certifications

• Special processes and specific vendors

• Is there available tooling or gages?

• Are there mating or sample parts that we need to match?

• Do you need interchangeability with existing components?

4.  UNDERSTANDING YOUR APPLICATION

Finally – It is helpful to understand the application. For example, a high-speed pinion going into a positioning drive on a CNC machine tool is much different than a low-speed drive gear on an antique farm implement. 

• Speed

• Horsepower

• Environment

They all play a part in proper gear selection. As we gain a better understanding of the application, we can make recommendations for better performance, improved lead time and competitive pricing.