Our model assumes a series. We do not make one-offs, and we do not take one-time orders with low volume. The reason is not reluctance but arithmetic: establishing a new product requires follow-up, sampling, measurement and process qualification before series production can start at all, and that effort has to be spread across a real number of parts.
What we can say today: for pressure die casting there should be a few thousand parts per year or per order. For gravity casting we manage on a fifth to a tenth of that, because the tool costs less.
This we can promise: you get an answer to an enquiry after a technical assessment. If you only have a sketch, you get an estimate. If you have final files, you get a formal quotation once the production basis is sufficient.
Why the volume threshold differs between the two processes: a pressure die is a hardened steel tool with cooling channels, an ejector system and often slides, and that is the cost that has to be spread across the parts. A gravity mould is more simply built and costs correspondingly less to buy. If your volume is below what die casting needs, gravity die casting is often the answer rather than a no.
If it is below both, we say so immediately. An early no is better for you than a no after several weeks. Smaller series are assessed case by case.
When you calculate lead time, remember that external surface finishing comes on top. Anodising and powder coating are done by a subcontractor and coordinated by us, and those days sit outside our own chain. If the part is to be delivered coated, ask for the lead time including finishing.
The concrete lead times, from tool order to first sample and from call-off to delivery in series, are not published yet. Ask us for your part.