Often, when customers inquire, the first question they ask is: "I want to produce a batch of silicone products. Can you do that?"
I usually reply with: "Yes, we can. Could you please send me your product requirements?"
Then, many customers get stuck - they don't know what to send.
Today, I will help you prepare a list of information for custom-made silicone products. You can follow this list and send it to any silicone factory. They will be able to quickly provide you with quotations and solutions.
I. Basic Information: Let the factory know what you are going to do first
This part is the simplest, but it is also the most easily overlooked.
1. Product Name and Usage
Don't just say "silicone pad" or "silicone cover". Be specific about where it is used and what it is used for.
For example:
"Remote control buttons, used on household air conditioners"
"Smart watch strap, for sport models"
"Sealing ring, for water pipe joints"
The purpose determines what materials, hardness, and processes the factory recommends. Even with "silicone sleeves", the way they are made is completely different when used on a mobile phone versus an industrial pipe.
2. Product quantity
Sample quantity: usually 1-5
Small batch trial production: 100-500
Formal order: thousands to tens of thousands
The quantity is different, and the factory's solution is also different.
3. Are there reference samples or pictures?
If you have an existing sample or similar pictures online, just send them over. One picture is worth a thousand words. The factory can quickly understand the general approach and get a faster quote.
II. Dimensions and drawings: The more detailed, the better
1. 2D drawings or 3D files
It is best to provide CAD drawings or 3D files (in STEP or IGS formats). Clearly mark on the drawing:
Overall dimensions: length, width, height
Key dimensions: which parts must be strictly guaranteed
Tolerance requirements: how much error is acceptable
If there is no drawing, at least provide a hand-drawn sketch + key dimensions. The factory can also convert it into a formal drawing for you.
2. How to determine tolerances?
Many customers prefer to write "±0.05mm", thinking that the more precise, the better. But silicone has a shrinkage rate, and the tighter the tolerance, the higher the cost and the lower the yield rate.
Suggestion:
Key dimensions (affecting assembly): ±0.1~0.2mm
General dimensions: ±0.3~0.5mm
Non-key dimensions: can be relaxed
If you are unsure, inform the factory about the product's usage and let the engineer help you determine the tolerance.
III. Materials and Hardness: Determine product performance
1. Material grade
Industrial grade: for general industrial parts and seals
Food grade: for kitchenware, baby products, tableware
Medical grade: for medical devices, products in contact with the human body
The prices vary greatly depending on the grade, so be sure to specify the purpose in advance.
2. Hardness requirements
Silicone hardness is indicated by Shore A (Shore A), with higher numbers indicating greater hardness.
Common references:
10-20 degrees: extremely soft, baby nipples, biomimetic skin
30-40 degrees: soft, tooth gels, silicone spoons
40-60 degrees: moderate, buttons, straps, protective cases
60-80 degrees: slightly hard, industrial rollers, seals
If you are not sure which degree to choose, tell the factory "soft or hard", and the engineer will recommend.
IV. Color and Surface Treatment: Determine product appearance
1. Color requirements
Have specific color numbers: provide Pantone color numbers or color swatches
No color number: describe the color, or send a sample for the factory to match
Special effects: transparent, semi-transparent, fluorescent, luminous, etc.
2. Surface treatment
Smooth: smooth surface, shiny
Matte: matte, no reflection
Sanded: with fine grain texture, anti-slip
Spray hand oil: smooth and non-sticky, not prone to dust
These effects directly affect the feel and appearance, clearly state them in advance to avoid getting something you don't want.
V. Process Requirements: Any special needs
1. Printing or laser engraving
Do you want to print text or patterns?
Use screen printing or laser engraving?
Do you want transparency after laser engraving?
2. Back adhesive
Is double-sided adhesive needed on the product's back?
What kind of adhesive (3M adhesive, ordinary double-sided adhesive) should be used?
3. Assembly
Is the product a single part or needs to be assembled with metal or plastic?
Should it be covered with adhesive?
VI. Quantity and Delivery Date: Affecting quotation and production scheduling
1. Order quantity
Proofing quantity
First batch order quantity
Subsequent return order quantity
2. Delivery date requirements
When do you need the sample?
When do you need the batch delivery?
Are there any special time points (such as exhibitions, holiday promotions)?
The earlier you communicate, the more the factory can adjust the production schedule, and the cost may be higher. Communicate in advance to help you plan.
VII. Packaging and Marking: The final step before shipment
1. Packaging method
Bulk or individual packaging?
Should labels be attached?
Should the logo be printed?
2. Marking requirements
Should the brand logo be printed on the product?
Should the product information be printed on the packaging?
Finally, a few words
Preparing these information is not to "bother you", but to help the factory get the product right the first time.
The more complete the information provided, the faster the proofing, the more accurate the quotation, and the less disputes after shipment.
If you are preparing to make silicone products and don't know where to start, welcome to Hongshaoda to chat. Send the information you can think of, and we will complete the rest together.