Metal fabrication is one of the many metal processing techniques adopted in the manufacturing industry. Fabrication could be achieved via several known methods, and each method has its uniqueness. Metal casting is a popular fabrication method that has been in use for ages in the manufacturing sector.
Metal casting has evolved in so many ways due to advancements in technological innovation, and these new methods guarantee efficiency. Each metal casting method adopts a specialized approach that suits the properties of the metal. However, there’s a need to know the benefits of each metal casting method to identify the particular one that suits your production line; this article highlights the various metal casting methods and their unique benefits.
Sand Casting
This method of casting adopts the use of synthetic or natural bond sand for effectiveness. This method of casting allows for solidity as the grains of sand are packed together to form a smooth molding surface. Furthermore, sand casting allows a moderate level of flexibility in the cooling phase to reduce the possibility of cracks and tears in the product. Often, clay is added to the sand particles to boost the bond between the particles. The sand casting method is popular in the production of automobile parts like engine blocks and some other vital housing products.
Plaster casting
Plaster casting is quite similar to sand casting, but there are a few differences in the materials used. Here, sand is replaced by a mixture of strengthening compounds, gypsum, and water. The mix of these materials ensures every corner of the mold is filled. Also, anti-adhesive compounds are applied to the content to ensure it doesn’t stick to the mold afterward. Plaster materials require partial or total fixing when used as most parts of the mold form cracks after using it to cast a section.
Die Casting
This method of casting adopts the use of non-ferrous metals as well as alloys like aluminum, copper, and tin. It involves the subjection of the materials to intense pressure to give the material the desired shape. Right before casting starts, the mold is painted with lubricant to ensure the content can quickly be ejected upon solidification; the coating also helps in the regulation of the die’s internal temperature in the pressure phase. Subsequently, molten metal is injected into the cast while it’s been subjected to intense pressure. The pressure phase is quite rapid to ensure the material doesn’t solidify before being appropriately cast. Upon completion, the content is carefully ejected, and metal scraps are removed from the product. Die casting guarantees a certain level of precision in the material’s consistency; this method of casting metal also lowers the need for post-casting machining of the product.
Investment casting
This casting method involves the use of wax in creating each part of the product. The wax is usually injected into the mold before the composite material is poured into the mold and allowed to form.
Final thoughts
The casting method of production remains one of the most utilized in the manufacturing industry. There are various casting methods, and this article highlights each casting method as well as the processes involved in each technique. Rapiddone offers some of these highlighted molding processes.
