When it comes to the sheer number of uses for cast aluminum, it’s unmatched. From small handheld devices to large trucks, tens of thousands of products use this beautiful, lightweight metal. It’s also heavily used in household items like cookware and backyard furniture because it’s strong, heat-resistant, and lightweight.
Cast aluminum is inexpensive and long-lasting. If cast aluminum cracks or splits, a skilled worker or do-it-yourselfer can extend its lifespan by welding it back together.
What is Cast Aluminum?
Aluminium is cast through the process of aluminium casting, which is created by heating aluminium to a very high temperature. The molten aluminium is cooled after being moulded so that many different products can be made. Below are a few common types of cast aluminium moulds.
Die Casting Mold
This is a high-volume production method that allows companies to produce large quantities of products. After adding molten aluminum to a steel mold or die, it is formed under high pressure, and products are manufactured in bulk by this method.
Sand Casting Molds
The sand casting method can be used for many different purposes. It takes longer than other methods, but is best suited for small batches of products or products with complex designs. In addition, this method is also suitable for larger items.
First, a model of the finished product needs to be made. A mold is created by pressing the model into the sand. Metal that is still molten is placed into the mold. After it has cooled completely, the sand is brushed off and the finished product is ready to be seen.
Shell Mold
These molds are a type of sand casting. They are made by melting and casting sand into a very thin shell using resin. Shell molds give very precise results, but the process is more expensive.
Permanent Mold Casting
In this method, aluminum is placed in a mold and then condensed in the mold. Products cast using permanent mold casting are usually stronger and last longer than those from die casting or sand casting.
Ceramic Molds
Ceramic molds are usually used in conjunction with the investment casting method. Ceramic molds are also known as precision casting because they allow you to do very fine work. Ceramic molds are usually made of wax or plastic. This is because it melts or disappears during the firing process, which leaves room in the mold for the molten aluminum.
Plaster Molds
This method involves pouring a gypsum mixture over wax and is a type of vanishing mold casting technique. When the mold gets hot, the wax melts and leaves a pattern. The aluminum can then be placed into the mold.
Uses of Cast Aluminum
This metal can be used in many ways in homes and businesses.
Kitchen utensils and patio furniture are two commonly used cast aluminum household items. In fact, kitchenware was the first widely used household item made from this metal. This metal is also frequently used to make parts for small appliances, hand tools, lawn equipment, and other household items.
More than half of the aluminum in automotive parts is cast aluminum, and the automotive industry is the largest market for this metal. This is because the lightweight nature of aluminum helps reduce fuel consumption.
Cast aluminum metal is also used in telecommunications. It is an ideal material for RF filter boxes because it dissipates heat better. The use of cast aluminum, which does not add weight, also makes handheld electronic devices more durable and safer.
Cast aluminum is an important part of electronics. For joints and housings, this metal is especially good because it is strong even at high temperatures.
The Difference Between Aluminum and Cast Aluminum
When manufacturing parts or components, it can be difficult to choose between cast aluminum and aluminum. If you haven’t heard of either material before, they may sound exactly the same. However, there are some differences between the two.
Something made from cast aluminum tends to be strong, durable, and easy to maintain. It won’t rust or break easily in the elements. Since it can be shaped, it also lends itself to more detailed designs, and you can find many unique options.
Products made from regular aluminum are less expensive, but that’s because they’re of poor quality. Aluminum is not as strong as steel, but it doesn’t get hot in hot weather. Since regular aluminum dents and scratches easily, things made from it wear out faster.
Cast aluminum is not only useful and durable, it’s also good for the planet. In the United States, almost all cast aluminum comes from recycled aluminum. This cast aluminum metal is suitable for both homes and high-tech businesses.
Cast Iron vs. Cast Aluminum
Cast iron has many of the same uses as cast aluminum. However, the two are completely different in some important ways.
Cast aluminum has many advantages. First, it is much lighter than cast iron. Cast aluminum will not rust, but cast iron will rust quickly if not cleaned and stored properly. Also, cast aluminum pans are usually cheaper than cast iron pans.
A big reason cast aluminum is better than cast iron is that it heats up and cools down faster. This is a very attractive advantage when making many different things such as cast aluminum cookware. In addition, aluminum is usually easier to keep clean than cast iron. This is especially important for people who use it on a regular basis.
For many people, the choice between cast iron and cast aluminum depends on personal taste. However, when it comes to actually manufacturing your product, you should consider both options to see which one is best for your application.
Common Items Made with Cast Aluminum
Many of the commercial products you use on a daily basis may be made entirely of cast aluminum, or have parts made of cast aluminum. This may surprise you.
Automotive Parts
Cast aluminum parts are great for making automotive parts because they are very strong and lightweight. Airbag housings and seatbelt retractor spools are some of the important safety parts made from die-cast aluminum.
This material is also used to make the steering knuckles that support the wheel bearings. Since steering knuckles are an important part of the suspension system of a car, lightweight materials help reduce the weight of the car without affecting its power or performance.
Medical Equipment
Cast aluminum is also used in the manufacture of many medical devices because it is strong and does not melt in high-temperature environments. Medical machines that are often made with this metal include surgical tools, parts for different pumps, gearboxes for hospital beds, and even parts for monitors.
Cast Aluminum Cookware
Cast aluminum cookware has been an important part of every home kitchen for many years. This product is very useful because it can be cooked on the stovetop as well as baked in the oven. It can be put in the dishwasher for cleaning, so cleanup is quick and easy.
Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture
When buying outdoor furniture, you want something that looks great, lasts a long time, and doesn’t require much maintenance. If you want an outdoor furniture set that comes in a variety of styles, finishes, and colors, cast aluminum patio furniture may be just what you’re looking for. It can be used for entertaining as well as sitting with family and friends.
Better Cast Aluminum Service
For your next aluminum die-casting project, China Casting Synergy Group can help. Whether you’re looking for a prototype solution for a new product or want to put an existing product into production, we can help. 30 Over the years, we’ve helped many different businesses with their metal fabrication needs. Contact us today for a quote on die-casting work.