PERMANENT MOLD CASTING

What is permanent mold casting?

Permanent mold casting, also referred to as gravity die casting or permold, is a process that utilizes gravity to feed molten aluminum into a reusable mold or die. At LA Aluminum, we create both the molds and the resultant aluminum parts.

Costs less, yet gives you more.

Many of our customers have converted a weldment or assembly originally constructed from iron or steel to an aluminum casting. As a result, they’ve achieved the ultimate cost effective solution: a lighter weight, structurally sound casting that eliminates welding labor and assembly costs.

In some cases we are able to recommend design modifications to increase productivity, enhance part functionality, or reduce mass. These suggestions can often lead to substantial cost savings.

Higher Production Rates

The mold doesn't have to be remade each time-- it's permanent! That's why higher production rates are possible. Permanent molds can produce tens of thousands of parts throughout their lifetime.

Lower Labor Costs

Higher production rates means productivity is increased. Increased productivity results in a lower price.

Weight Reduction

The higher strength properties produced by the permanent mold process permit castings with thinner walls. The resultant weight savings ultimately means cost savings-- both material costs and shipping costs

Lower Machining Costs

Closer dimensional tolerances made possible by permanent mold castings and the option of casting inserts such as threaded steel inserts, nuts, and bushings into the casting minimize required machining.

Smoother Surface Finishes

Smoother surface finishes, typically 125-300 RMS reduce polishing costs.

SOUNDNESS

Of the three basic types of castings- die, sand and permanent mold- permanent mold gives the soundest casting overall.

Strength

The chilling effect of the metal mold produces fine grain structures which significantly enhance physical properties. Elongation is 50%-100% greater and other mechanical properties are from 20%-25% greater than sand castings of the same alloy.

Low Porosity

Permanent mold castings are less susceptible to gas entrapment than that of sand castings or die castings.

Review our Casting Method Comparison and other Tech Specs.

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Talk with one of our casting specialists for more information.