01 / Start with the part
Record the material grade, hardness or coating when known, part geometry and the surfaces to be processed. Add drawings and photographs where disclosure is permitted.
02 / Define the result
Describe the required finish using the specified measurement parameter and inspection method. Appearance, roughness, flatness and dimensional tolerances are separate requirements. Avoid using a photograph as the only acceptance criterion.
03 / Describe the current condition
Include the incoming surface condition, earlier machining steps, defects to remove and any allowance on material removal. Record the existing machine and consumables when comparing alternatives.
04 / Ask for a documented trial
Request a trial plan, measured results and the exact consumable and machine configuration used. Keep part identification, process settings and inspection records together.