What Molds Are Used For Aluminium Casting (Part 1)

Did you know that all of the aluminium components used in industries across the world have been created through a casting process? The molten metal is poured into molds where it sets and becomes the different shapes and forms that are needed for construction and other industrial applications. But what types of molds are used to cast aluminium and how does each work?

• Sand Casting: This is the oldest type of mold for casting aluminium; it was being used back in the time of the ancient Egyptians. Sand is held in a box and a cavity is created (using a solid material, like timber) whereby the molten metal is poured in. 
• Ceramic: This mold is created around a plastic or wax shape that melts when the mold it fired. Once the wax or plastic has melted away, the mold is ready to receive the molten aluminium. This process is also known as ‘precision casting’. 
• Permanent Casting: These molds are crafted from metals like steel and iron. The aluminium is forced into the cavity, using either gravity or a vacuum. The difference with these molds is that they can be reused again and again. 
• Die Casting: These molds use steel dies to produce a number of castings that are identical. Under high pressure, the molten aluminium is forced into these cavities. It is favoured for being a versatile process, enabling the creation of small to medium castings. 

In part two of this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the other molds that are commonly used in aluminium casting, including shell, plaster and graphite casting ones. These are known for being a little more complex and uncommon than the four outlined above.