Original / Genuine
A genuine part is supplied under the equipment or component manufacturer's brand and part number. For critical applications, ask for traceability, manufacturer packaging and documentation appropriate to the item.
OEM
OEM generally means Original Equipment Manufacturer, but in trading markets the term can be ambiguous. An OEM claim should therefore be supported by the actual manufacturer identity, exact specification and relationship to the original equipment.
Equivalent / Alternative
An equivalent is a technically compatible alternative from another manufacturer. Compatibility must be checked against the operating requirement—not only dimensions. Material, rating, tolerance, speed, pressure, temperature, certification and interface can all matter.
RFQ rule: State your sourcing preference clearly: Original only, OEM acceptable, Equivalent acceptable, or Open to alternatives.
Before approving an alternative
- Confirm exact part number and equipment model.
- Compare critical technical parameters and materials.
- Check required certifications and documentation.
- Consider warranty, safety and shutdown consequences.
- Require the proposed manufacturer and country of origin to be stated in the quotation.