1. When stock items are not enough
Four scenarios: non-standard length (for example, a 1.2 m threaded rod for a roofing detail), an uncommon thread pitch, an exotic material (A4 stainless steel in a special alloy, bronze), non-standard head or tip geometry. You won’t find it in the catalogue — it is easier to order a batch right away.
2. How to write the technical specification
A drawing with tolerances, the material and steel grade specified (or a reference to a GOST), the required treatment (heat treatment, galvanizing, passivation), and the batch packaging. Without a drawing the manufacturer works from a sample — and the customer is later surprised the copy differs slightly from the original.
3. Minimum batch
It depends on the product type. Machined fasteners — from 50 pcs. Cold-stamped — from 1,000 pcs. Cast — from 200 pcs. Minimum batches are dictated by tooling setup, not by the manufacturer’s greed. If the volume is below the minimum, the batch will cost 2–3 times more per unit.
4. Lead time and cost
The break-even point is when the cost of a custom batch is lower than the combined cost of stock fasteners plus reworking the connection. Typical lead time: 10–21 days from the moment the drawing is approved. In price terms — 20–40% above the standard product range of a comparable size.
5. Testing after manufacturing
For critical connections — mandatory: tensile testing machine (3 samples per batch), hardness tester (5 samples), 100% visual inspection. For load-bearing structures — a certified test report linked to the batch number. Without a test report, a certificate of conformity will not be issued.
Have a non-standard connection? Send us a drawing or a photo of the reference part — a manager will confirm the technology and send a commercial proposal with the minimum batch and lead time.