| Engineering and fixture design | Ability to interpret part data, welding sequence, datum strategy, clamp access, and process requirements. | Review a design proposal, 3D model, clamp layout, and documented design-review process against your part and weld-process requirements. | 20% | _____ |
| Accuracy and repeatability | How fixture locating features and assembled components are measured and checked for repeatable part positioning. | Request inspection records for critical dimensions and a measurement plan. Agree tolerances from the part drawing and application; avoid relying on a generic accuracy claim. | 15% | _____ |
| Manufacturing capability | In-house or controlled capability for machining, fabrication, assembly, and any required surface treatment. | Check relevant equipment, process controls, subcontracting arrangements, and sample inspection documents for comparable work. | 15% | _____ |
| Welding-process understanding | Consideration of weld access, torch or gun clearance, heat distortion, spatter, and operator or robot access. | Review process-specific layout checks and a trial or simulation plan where appropriate. Confirm compatibility with the customer’s welding process and equipment. | 15% | _____ |
| Materials and purchased components | Suitability and traceability of specified steels, aluminum, locating elements, clamps, sensors, and other components. | Confirm the bill of materials, material certificates where specified, component datasheets, and an approval process for substitutions. | 10% | _____ |
| Quality management and documentation | Document control, inspection records, nonconformance handling, and change management throughout the project. | Review sample quality records and audit relevant certifications directly with the issuing body. ISO 9001 certification can support assessment of a quality-management system but does not certify fixture performance. | 10% | _____ |
| Project delivery and communication | Realistic milestones, drawing-approval points, progress reporting, and responsiveness to technical questions. | Request a project schedule showing design, approval, fabrication, inspection, tryout, and shipment stages; check how delays and design changes are communicated. | 10% | _____ |
| Tryout, installation, and after-sales support | Support for fixture validation, installation, operator handover, spare parts, and issue resolution after delivery. | Define acceptance tests, included support, response channels, spare-parts arrangements, and any travel or service costs in the quotation or contract. | 5% | _____ |
| Total suggested weighting | 100% | _____ |