What is your sample policy, MOQ, lead time, replacement and packing?

13. Are samples free? What does the sample fee cover?

No — custom prototypes are paid, and we'd rather be upfront about it.

The sample charge covers machining, tooling/fixtures, inspection and freight. Those items are listed on the written quotation. Any credit against a later production order only applies under a separate written agreement. This keeps expectations honest from the first contact, and means the quote you get for production is a real one, not a subsidized sample figure.

14. What is the MOQ and lead time?

There's no blanket MOQ. It depends on the material, geometry, quantity and inspection scope. Prototype and production lead times are set in the written quotation once drawing approval, material availability and testing requirements are confirmed.

If you have a hard deadline, raise it in the first conversation. We'll tell you early whether the date is realistic, rather than at the end of production.

15. Can you replace another manufacturer's dome?

Maybe — but it has to be reviewed, not assumed. Send us:

• The original drawing, a sample, or complete dimensions.
• Your lens and housing information.

We check geometry and interface compatibility. Important: a replacement dome does not automatically inherit the pressure qualification of the original assembly. Treat the swap as a new interface to validate.

16. How are domes packed and shipped?

We pack to keep optical surfaces untouched: individual supports that avoid contact with the optics, inside a protective container and a reinforced outer case. If you have special handling, humidity or marking requirements, tell us before dispatch and we'll build it into the packing.

What to do next

To move from "looking" to a real project, send us four things: your drawing, your target depth, your lens information, and your quantity. We'll review feasibility and come back with a written scope — including what testing and records would be required.

• REQUEST A CUSTOM QUOTE →
• Or email drawings directly to james@felixglass.com

Related: browse the underwater optical dome product family, read the subsea optical dome engineering hub, or explore the subsea dome FAQ library.