FAQ

Sand casting is a manufacturing process that involves creating a mold using a pattern and packing it with sand to form a cavity. Molten metal is then poured into the mold, where it solidifies and takes the shape of the pattern. Once the metal cools, the sand mold is broken away, leaving behind the cast metal part. This process is commonly used to produce a wide range of metal components.

Sand casting offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, versatility, and the ability to produce complex shapes and large components. It is also well-suited for prototype and low to medium volume production runs. Additionally, sand casting can be used with a variety of metals, making it a versatile choice for many industries.

Sand casting can be used with a wide range of metals, including aluminum, bronze, brass, cast iron, steel, and even exotic alloys like titanium and nickel-based superalloys. The choice of metal depends on the specific application and the properties required for the final part.

Quality in sand casting is maintained through proper sand preparation, rigorous mold-making processes, and inspection procedures. Careful control of the sand’s moisture content and compaction, as well as the use of well-designed patterns, help ensure accurate molds. Regular inspections and quality checks during and after the casting process identify and rectify defects.

Green sand casting uses damp sand mixed with clay as the mold material. Resin sand casting involves adding a resin binder to the sand mixture, providing greater strength and surface finish. Shell molding uses pre-coated resin-bonded sand in thin shells, allowing for improved accuracy and surface finish. The choice of method depends on the specific requirements of the casting.

Yes, sand casting is a versatile process that can be used for producing both small and large metal parts. The size of the part primarily depends on the capacity of the foundry and the equipment available. Sand casting can accommodate a wide range of part sizes, from a few ounces to several tons.

Yes, there are design considerations for sand casting, such as draft angles, fillets, and avoiding sharp corners to facilitate mold removal. Designers should also account for shrinkage during solidification and ensure proper gating and risering systems to minimize defects like porosity and shrinkage cavities.

The timeline for a sand casting project varies based on factors like part complexity, foundry capacity, and order size. Generally, it can take several weeks to months, starting from the design and pattern-making phase to the final delivery of castings. CSC offers 2-week standard delivery for pattern ready castings.

Manual sand casting involves more hands-on labor, making it suitable for small-scale or custom production. Automated or machine-assisted sand casting incorporates robotics and mechanization for high-volume and repeatable production. The choice depends on production volume, cost, and efficiency requirements.