# Siku (Zampoña) — Supplier RFQ

**Project:** Siku/Zampoña Panpipe Family (Toyo · Zanka · Malta · Chili)  
**Date:** 2026-05-08  
**Contact:** Tony Koop · tonykoop@gmail.com  
**Quantity context:** Prototype build (1 of each size class = 4 instruments, 52 tubes total)

---

## RFQ A — Bamboo Cane Tube Stock

**To:** [Bamboo specialty supplier — Bamboo Craftsman / Tropical Bamboo / local Andean instrument supplier]

Subject: Bamboo Cane Tube Stock — Siku/Zampoña Panpipe Build

Hello,

I am building a prototype set of Andean siku (zampoña) panpipes in four sizes. I need bamboo cane (cañahueca or similar dense Andean bamboo species) in the following bore/OD specifications. Please quote unit price per foot, minimum order, current lead time, and whether the bore diameters can be confirmed to specification.

**Required specifications:**

| Size | Bore ID (in) | Approx OD (in) | Wall (in) | Quantity (ft) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyo (bass) | 0.750 ± 0.030 | ~1.000 | ~0.125 | 25 ft | Must include sections with no nodes for 23" clear spans |
| Zanka (tenor) | 0.625 ± 0.025 | ~0.821 | ~0.098 | 20 ft | Consistent bore critical |
| Malta (alto) | 0.500 ± 0.020 | ~0.658 | ~0.079 | 15 ft | |
| Chili (soprano) | 0.375 ± 0.015 | ~0.493 | ~0.059 | 10 ft | Thin-wall — confirm structural integrity |

**Additional questions:**
1. Can you confirm the bamboo species and country of origin?
2. Are the cane sections kiln-dried or air-dried? Moisture content at shipping?
3. Do you offer sections with a natural node at a selectable position (for use as closed-end plugs)?
4. What is your typical bore-diameter variance over a 10-foot section?

Substitutions are acceptable if the bore and wall dimensions match within the stated tolerances. Please provide a data sheet or sample photo if available.

Thank you,  
Tony Koop

---

## RFQ B — PVC Pipe (Prototyping Alternative)

**To:** Local plumbing supply / Home Depot / Lowes

No formal RFQ needed — confirm in-store stock of:

| Nominal Size | Schedule | Actual ID (verify with caliper) | Use for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1" nominal | Sch 40 | ~0.824" (measure — may suit Toyo if close to 0.750") | Toyo prototype |
| 3/4" nominal | Sch 40 | ~0.622" (near-match for Zanka 0.625") | Zanka prototype |
| 1/2" nominal | Sch 40 | ~0.622" (oversized for Malta 0.500" — note difference) | Malta prototype (recalculate lengths) |
| 3/8" nominal | Sch 40 or thin-wall | ~0.493" OD variants available | Chili prototype |

> **Note:** If PVC bore deviates from bamboo design bore, recalculate all tube lengths using the actual measured bore ID in the formula: `L = 13552 / (4 × f) − 0.82 × actual_bore_ID`.

---

## RFQ C — Cherry/Walnut Frame Rail Stock

**To:** Woodcraft / Rockler / local hardwood dealer

Subject: Hardwood S4S Dimensional Stock for Instrument Frame Rails

Hello,

I need the following hardwood stock for CNC-routed frame rails on a musical instrument project. Straight grain, no defects in the rail face.

| Species | Form | Thickness | Width | Length | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry (preferred) | S4S | 3/4" (will mill to 3/8") | 4" (will rip to 1.5") | 24" | 2 boards | Straight grain; no checks, knots, or wild grain |
| Walnut (alternate) | S4S | 3/4" | 4" | 24" | 2 boards | Same spec |

**Questions:**
1. Do you carry cherry S4S 4/4 × 4" × 24" in stock today?
2. What is the current price per board foot for FAS-grade cherry?
3. Acceptable moisture content range?

---

## RFQ D — Waxed Cord / Binding Supplies

**To:** Tandy Leather / bookbinding supply / Amazon

| Item | Spec | Qty | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waxed linen cord | 1/16" dia, natural or black, 50-ft spool | 1 spool | Tube binding wraps |
| Beeswax block | Food/craft grade, 2 oz minimum | 1 block | Closed-end tube plugs + cord waxing |

No formal RFQ needed — standard craft/leather supply items. Confirm availability and order.