Sand Casting
Sand casting is one of the oldest known casting processes to date. It is the most versatile and widely used casting method. Molten metal is poured into a sand mould cavity, (developed using a pattern of the product in consideration) by gravity or force where required, and this solidifies to form the desired product.
Common characteristics of Sand casting
- Around 70% of all metal castings are produced with the sand casting process.
- Sand castings can generally be produced in a variety of sizes.
- The dimensional accuracy might be low.
- Surface finish is below average.
- Mass production can be handled with this process.
Advantages of Sand Casting
- Possesses high design flexibility and parts weighing few grams to multiple tons can be produced.
- Complex features can be shaped.
- Can be used with a wide range of metal alloys.
- The cost of tooling and equipment is very low compared to other manufacturing processes.
- Lead time is quite short.
- Since the scrap material can be reused again, wastage is quite less in this process.