Application Case: AI Server Cold Plate CNC Machining RFQ Playbook

Application context

A cold plate for an accelerator module typically needs a flat thermal contact face, sealed coolant channels, threaded ports and corrosion-safe surfaces. The RFQ must capture thermal, fluid and dimensional requirements together.

This is an application case playbook, not a fabricated customer success story. It describes the engineering information a buyer should prepare and the manufacturing route FabVector would evaluate before issuing a firm quote.

Suggested manufacturing route

• Rough machine copper blank, finish datum and thermal faces, then machine channels and sealing grooves.
• Review whether cover bonding, brazing or mechanical sealing is part of the supplier scope.
• Inspect flatness, groove dimensions, port position and post-finish coating thickness.

Material and finish decisions

• C110 copper for thermal performance.
• Electroless nickel plating when coolant compatibility or oxidation control is required.
• 6061 aluminum may be appropriate for cover plates or manifolds.

Quality and risk controls

• Confirm pressure-test requirement and acceptance threshold.
• Define surface roughness and flatness for die-contact areas.
• Avoid hidden dead zones that trap chips or cleaning fluid.

What to include in the RFQ

• STEP model, 2D drawing, coolant chemistry and pressure target.
• Flatness, roughness, O-ring material and port thread standards.
• Prototype quantity and pilot build forecast.

Related FabVector resources

• Cold plate machining guide
• Copper C110
• Start RFQ

Use the RFQ workflow when the project needs price, lead time, inspection scope, material certificates or a production-ready handoff package.