In part one of this article, we looked at the first four molds that are commonly used in the process of aluminium casting – sand, ceramic, permanent and die casting ones. Now, in part two, we will look at the final three molds and the ways in which they are used to create the various aluminium components that are regularly used across a number of industries.

• Shell: This mold is actually a form of the sand casting one and utilizes resin the bond the sand into a thin shell. This is, however, the more expensive of the two methods, although it is highly effective in producing a better surface on the aluminium component.
• Plaster: These molds are created using a plaster mixture that is poured around some wax or foam. The mold is then baked, allowing the wax or foam to melt away and leaving a perfect copy of its shape. Molten aluminium is then poured into the cavity.
• Graphite Casting: This mold is often used in conjunction with aluminium centrifugal casting. The metal is forced into the mold where it is rapidly chilled. The resulting component cannot be created using any of the other processes.

Each of the seven molds outlined in parts one and two of this blog have long been used to craft the various aluminium shapes and forms that are used in construction and other related industries everyday. By familiarizing yourself with each of the descriptions, you should be able to determine which mold will best suit your needs, resulting in perfectly casted metal every time.

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.