Investment casting is one of the oldest known metal-forming techniques. While many other ways of forms of metal-forming have been created over the years, investment casting is still the most popular. Let’s take a look at the comparison between investment castings and other methods and how investment casting can allow you to cut production costs.
Investment Casting vs Forging
Forging is the process in which either hot or cold material is pressed with a massive hammer to push the material into the shape desired. This process requires extremely expensive tooling that often needs to be replaced. While the strength of a part is slightly better with forgings, the cost is significantly higher due to the specialty equipment needed and the danger that goes into it. Investment casting requires less expensive equipment and is less dangerous, allowing costs to remain lower.
Investment Casting vs Die Casting
Die casting is the process in which molten metal is forced into a mold cavity. Using molten metal requires tooling that is made of hardened tool steel. These tools can wear quickly and are expensive to refurbish and replace. Investment casting injects wax into an aluminum cavity. Aluminum has a lower cost, is easier to cut, and less expensive to maintain. Investment casting can also be done using ferrous and non-ferrous materials, where die casting can’t use ferrous materials.
Are You Interested in Investment Castings?
At Ferralloy, we offer investment castings at competitive prices. Contact us today to learn how we can save you money on your next project.
