Completed work
Plastic component housings for Northern Power Electric
A damaged grey component housing recreated in white plastic for Northern Power Electric. Compare the outer profile, internal ribs and fixing features.
Enlarge photographWorking from a damaged housing
The supplied grey housing provided the reference for this project. Visible damage made the comparison especially useful: the replacements needed to reproduce the component’s shape and features, rather than simply resemble a box. The original remains alongside the white recreations in the photographs.
Recreating the component
Two white plastic housings were produced for Northern Power Electric. The photographs show the outer profile, the internal ribs and the fixing features. These views help explain what reverse engineering involves: understanding the original component, then recreating its geometry as a new part.
Looking beyond the outside shape
The reverse and end views are important evidence for this job. A replacement housing may have locating details and internal clearances that are not obvious in a front photograph. For a similar enquiry, include photographs of both sides, any damage, the fixings and the space in which the part is used.
A closer look at the parts
Enlarge photograph
Enlarge photographBefore ordering a replacement
What affects the price of a replacement part?
The quote depends on the design work, the reference information available, the features that control the fit, the manufacturing requirements and the quantity. An unclear or incomplete reference can require more work to establish the design. Design is usually quoted first with an estimated manufacturing price; the final manufacturing price is confirmed after design, before production is approved and paid for.
When is recreating a part worth considering?
It is worth discussing when a suitable standard spare is unavailable or difficult to source and the rest of the equipment remains useful. The decision depends on the work required, the intended use and the cost of other options. Send the equipment details and photographs so the proposed work and price can be considered before you decide.
Can I order more copies later?
Manufacturing files can be retained for future copies. Discuss this when agreeing the work. Where an established design is available, a repeat order can avoid recreating the same design from the beginning. Further quantities, changes, manufacturing prices and postage still need to be agreed for that order.
Can you help if the original part is missing?
Sometimes. A matching component, photographs, drawings or measurements of the place it fits may provide a starting point. Matthew needs to assess whether there is enough information to establish the design. If important details cannot be determined, an exact recreation may not be possible. Start with the references you have and explain what the replacement needs to do.
Need a replacement plastic housing?
Send photos and a short description. Matthew will discuss the next steps.