Metal Casting Definition and Processes
Definition
Casting is a method where a material that is solid is dissolved, heated to a suitable temperature, normally treated in order to change its chemical structure, and is then put into a cavity or mold, which will keep it in a proper form during the solidification process. As a result of this, in just one step, simple or complex designs could be created from any material that can be dissolved. And your end product can have almost any setting that the designer may need.
- Special needs such as, deterioration, magnetism and stress distribution also have an impact on the selection of the metal casting process.
- For all casting procedures, the choice of the right alloy, shape, sizing, tolerance, thickness, weight and structure is really important.
- Some opinions of the tooling manufacturer; secondary procedures like paint work and customer’s exact product needs, foundry or machine house requirements, need to be addressed before choosing the right metal casting process.
Metal Casting Processes
There are many different metal casting processes that are implemented in the manufacturing of parts, and there are two main divisions that can be identified by the fundamental nature of a mold that they use. There is long-lasting mold casting and expendable casting. The long-lasting molds are utilized for several and the expendable molds are utilized for a single metal casting. When you are considering manufacturing procedures, there are going to be both pros and cons to both of these processes.
Long-lasting Mold
- Most commonly made from metals or very often a refractory ceramic
- Is able to create many metal castings
- Have to open mold limitations part designs
- This mold has parts that can open or close, permitting eradication of the casting
Expendable Mold
- This mold is made of sand, or other similar materials
- Is only able to make one metal casting
- The mold that metal hardens in should be damaged to wipe out casting
- More complex geometries are feasible for casting
- Binders are used to support material and hold its shape
At Viking Foundry we offer a wide range of casting services, visit our website on www.vfdy.co.za for more information.