At Stephens Gaskets, we’re not just manufacturers – we’re problem-solvers. Every day, we work closely with engineers, buyers, and product designers to refine component designs, solve manufacturing challenges, and make sure parts are right from the start.
Our collaborative engineering and design support approach sets us apart. Rather than simply quoting “as-is,” we review every drawing, flag potential issues, and offer suggestions to improve manufacturability, reduce cost, and accelerate lead times.
Why Early Design Input Matters
Precision manufacturing doesn’t begin on the shop floor – it starts with the drawing. If a tolerance is too tight, a material isn’t suited to the process, or a feature can’t be reliably produced, it can lead to:
- Delays in production.
- Unexpected costs.
- Rework or redesign.
- Supply chain disruption.
By working with us early, you avoid these issues and benefit from practical, real-world insight grounded in decades of manufacturing experience.
Our Consultative Approach
Every enquiry we receive goes through a feasibility and design review. Here’s how our process typically works:
1. Review of Drawings or Specifications
We carefully review your CAD files, PDFs, or sketches to check for potential red flags – extremely tight tolerances, deep undercuts, or incompatible materials.
2. Discussion of Challenges or Recommendations
If we see something that could complicate production, we’ll reach out. Often, a small design change can make the part easier to produce, cheaper to run, or more consistent.
3. Prototype or Sample Production
For complex or high-spec parts, we often offer a pre-production prototype for evaluation. This helps validate the design before committing to full production.
4. Final Design Approval & Manufacturing
Once the design is confirmed, we proceed to full-scale production with confidence on both sides.
This hands-on approach makes us a true engineering partner, not just a parts supplier.
When to Involve Us
We’re here to help at any stage, but our design support is most valuable when:
- Prototyping a new product.
- Adjusting legacy parts for modern production.
- Scaling up from small batch to volume production.
- Sourcing replacements for discontinued components.
- Selecting materials for demanding applications.
Even if your design is finalised, a second set of expert eyes can save time and money.
What We Offer as an Engineering Partner
- Design for manufacture (DFM) advice.
- Material suitability and process matching.
- Tolerance and geometry feedback.
- Sample production for validation.
- Multi-process insight (laser cutting, CNC, pressing, moulding).
It’s all about delivering better results, more efficiently – while keeping you in control of your design.
Why It Matters
- Reduce risk of rework or delays.
- Ensure designs are production-ready.
- Optimise parts for process, material, and cost.
- Build confidence before scaling productionv
- Strengthen communication between design and manufacture.
In short, when we work together from the start, your outcome is smoother, faster, and more reliable.
FAQs – Collaborative Design Support
1. Do you charge for design input or DFM advice?
No. Our collaborative review is part of our service – it helps us manufacture better parts for you.
2. Can you work from hand-drawn sketches?
Yes. We can work from sketches or reverse – engineered samples if CAD isn’t available.
3. What file formats do you accept?
We accept DXF, DWG, STEP, PDF, and more.
4. Can I see a prototype before committing to full production?
Absolutely. We often recommend it for high-precision or new designs.
Final Thoughts
Great parts start with great designs – but they become even better with expert input. At Stephens Gaskets, our collaborative engineering and design support means your ideas are backed by experience, real-world know-how, and production-ready feedback.
Let us help you turn a good design into a great product – efficiently and reliably.
Let’s Talk About Your Design
Got a drawing that needs a second look? OR a new concept you’re prototyping?
We’d love to help. Our engineers are ready to review your project and provide feedback that adds value – not complications.
Submit your drawings or get advice today:
Phone: +44 (0)121 544 5808
Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk