There are many reasons why man has been utilizing metal for centuries. Metal is dense, durable and relatively easy to manipulate and melt and can be cast into an infinite number of complex sizes and shapes for purposes ranging from structural and machinery components to decorative sculpture and fixtures. Metal casting involves pouring melted metal into a mold that can be reused to make multiple copies of the same part. Ordering castings from metal foundries saves effort and time needed to machine and weld replicas of the same object. It also ensures each part is identical to the last.
Before ordering custom metal castings, there are some factors that you should take into account. Below are some factors to consider when ordering custom metal casting molds.
Design Specifications
Before you contact a metal casting supplier, consider the metal casting needs in detail. Start by thinking about what
parts you want to cast, their dimensions, shapes and the number of copies of each part you require. In metal casting, pattern making is the process through which casting mold is developed. The mold is then used for casting the designed part. They can either be non-reusable or reusable depending on the materials of the mold. It is, therefore vital to decide whether you are casting one item or you will need many replicas of the item.
Casting molds can be made from metal, plastic, sand or wood based on your casting needs. Metal or sand molds are the most common for metal casting applications. Molds are developed based on a detailed schematic, a prototype and example part.
Logistics
It is also essential to ensure you have your finished product delivered when you require it. Most likely, the supplier or company you select to work with will run along production schedule. You need to communicate with your supplier to determine lead times and pricing of the required products.
Application Quality Assurance
Besides the quantity and shape, it is also vital to think about the applications for which you will use the casting. The application purposes can determine the type of metal used for casting as well as the heat treatment needed to guarantee a long lifespan for the castings. You also need to consider the aesthetics as well as the physical properties since there are several metals from which you can choose.
Additionally, the castings have to undergo quality testing before use. For castings which are solely used for decorative purposes, quality testing involves checking the casting for cracks and chips. More intensive testing can, however, be necessary when the casting is used for industrial purposes.
Looking at these factors before ordering for these castings can help you get the best metal casting for your job.