How to write a complete RFQ for fittings and flanges

A vague enquiry leads to a vague quote, or to a string of clarification emails. A complete request for quotation (RFQ) lets the supplier price accurately and quickly. This checklist covers what to include for pipe fittings and flanges.

Start with a clean item list

Use a table or spreadsheet with one line per item and a column for each attribute. Avoid sending a photo of a handwritten list or a free-form paragraph. A tidy structure makes it easy for the supplier to check each line, and for you to compare quotes from several suppliers on equal terms.

What every fitting line needs

• Product: for example 90 degree long radius elbow, concentric reducer, equal tee, end cap
• Nominal size, and for reducers and reducing tees both sizes
• Schedule or wall thickness, at each end for reducing items
• Material grade and specification, for example ASTM A234 WPB or A403 WP316L
• Construction: seamless or welded
• Dimensional standard: ASME B16.9, B16.28, MSS SP-43 and so on
• Quantity and unit

For forged fittings

Add the connection type, socket weld or threaded, the thread standard such as NPT, and the pressure class to ASME B16.11, for example 3000 or 6000. For branch outlets, give the outlet type and the standard, such as MSS SP-97.

What every flange line needs

• Type: weld neck, slip-on, blind, socket weld, threaded or lap joint
• Nominal size and pressure class, for example Class 150 or 300
• Facing: raised face, flat face or ring type joint, with groove number for RTJ
• Weld neck bore, usually given as the pipe schedule
• Material, such as A105, A350 LF2 or A182 F316L
• Standard: ASME B16.5 up to NPS 24, or B16.47 Series A or B for larger sizes
• Quantity

Documents and quality requirements

State the certificates you need on the first message. Common ones are EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificates, a material test report with heat numbers, PMI records, hydrostatic or other test results, and a certificate of conformity. If you need third-party inspection or witnessed testing, say so, because it affects both price and lead time. Mention special requirements, such as NACE sour service compliance, impact testing, or customer approved manufacturer lists.

Commercial details

A short example line

One well-written line looks like this: 6 inch, Sch 40, 90 degree long radius elbow, seamless, ASTM A234 WPB, ASME B16.9, 24 pieces, EN 10204 3.1 certificate. Compare it with a line that just says 6 inch elbow carbon steel. The first can be priced and checked in a minute. The second raises five questions.

Common omissions

• Schedule missing on reducers and tees
• Flange facing and class left out
• Standard not stated, so ASME B16.9 and MSS SP-43 are confused
• Seamless or welded not specified for stainless fittings
• Certificate requirement added only after the order is placed

Ready to send your list? Share your RFQ with Fortune Fittings Private Limited, and we will respond with a clear quote. Tell us what documents you need.