An RFQ is the document that starts the purchase process. Most RFQs for a honeycomb paper machine ask for a price and a delivery time, and most of them get responses that are difficult to compare because the suppliers are answering different questions.
A well-written RFQ specifies the operation's requirements and asks the questions that separate suppliers. The responses that come back are easier to compare, and the decision is easier to make.
What to Specify About the Operation
The first section of the RFQ describes how the machine will be used. The paper roll width and the paper grade determine which machine will fit. Suitable paper is ≤80gsm, and both virgin kraft paper and recycled paper work. The RFQ should state which paper the operation intends to use and whether the operation plans to switch suppliers.
The packing volume determines the machine's capacity requirements. Die-cutting speed is adjustable between 5 and 18 m/min, and die-cutting width is adjustable between 200 and 500mm. The RFQ should state the daily packing volume and the range of carton sizes.
The space determines the machine's footprint. A compact footprint of just over 1 cubic meter, dimensions around 950x1150x1260mm and net weight near 502kg, fits beside a standard bench. The RFQ should state the available space and whether the machine will be placed at the bench or in a separate area.
What to Ask About the Machine
The second section asks the questions that separate suppliers. The answers to these questions explain most of the price difference between suppliers.
What material and construction is the cutting shaft. A shaft machined from precision alloy steel, CNC turned and ground for high fitting accuracy, holds its geometry longer than a cheaper alternative.
What is the die life, and how is it measured. A die that lasts about 1.0~1.3 million meters keeps the cells uniform across the entire run. The RFQ should ask whether the figure is nominal or based on actual production runs.
How is pressure controlled. A machine that supports automatic adaptation to paper thickness, with a clear pressure gauge for manual override, lets the operator change paper without retuning. The RFQ should ask whether the machine adapts automatically or requires manual adjustment.
How are spares supplied. A source factory can supply spares from its own production and answer technical questions directly. The RFQ should ask where the spares are produced and how quickly a replacement die can be shipped.
Can the machine be customized. Logo customization from one piece and color customization from ten pieces are possible when the manufacturer controls the production line. The RFQ should ask whether these customizations are available and what the lead time is.
What to Ask About the Installation
The third section asks about the installation requirements. Power requirements are modest: 1.5kW total power at AC220V/50HZ, with no compressor, heating element, or adhesive system. The RFQ should confirm that the machine can run on the available power supply and ask whether any auxiliary equipment is needed.
The RFQ should also ask whether the machine requires special installation. A machine that runs on standard power can be positioned at the packing bench without electrical work. A machine that requires a dedicated circuit or a compressor requires work that has to be scheduled.
How to Compare the Responses
The responses to the RFQ should be compared on the four questions that explain most of the price difference. What is the machine weight at this working width. What material and construction is the cutting shaft. How is pressure controlled. How are spares supplied and how quickly.
Those four answers predict how the honeycomb paper machine behaves after the warranty ends rather than how it behaves on the day it arrives. The RFQ that asks them gets responses that can be compared on the factors that matter.
The output from a honeycomb paper machine is biodegradable packaging and degradable packing material, a practical alternative to plastic packing materials, and it supports reuse cartons and paper recycling. A well-written RFQ is what makes that decision a comparison rather than a guess.