Casting refers to shaping liquid metal, which is difficult to shape in other ways, using molds, dies or patterns. Usually, cast parts need extra finishing to get rid of burrs from the casting process. Business owners use metal casting services for many different components and finished products include nails to engine blocks.

Common types of metal casting include iron casting, aluminum casting and white metal casting. Several casting methods exist, with sand casting being one of the most common. Keep a few basic issues in mind when looking for casting and metal forming services.

1. Keep abreast of new and upcoming products with a casting company specialized in your industry.

2. Compare local cast metal service providers with international providers.

3. Protect your reputation by using a casting company with a reputation for excellence.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find metal casting services for your industry

Look for companies that work with your industry, and you're sure to find a quality machine casting company with expert customer service people. Regardless of the material that makes your product or the type of product, there are companies serving your niche.

I recommend: Arrow Castings makes aluminum sand castings for aircraft, air and fluid technology, fans, pump parts, embedding and inserts. CAB makes industrial castings and forgings for mining operations, railways, waterworks, construction and more.

Consider outsourcing metal casting services

More of today's manufacturers are looking overseas for competitively priced industrial services. Check out what foreign companies have to offer in the way of metal casting supplies and services. You might save a bundle.

I recommend: Dynacast has operations in 26 locations. 20 of its locations also work in manufacturing. Also check out The Federal Group, a company that specializes in international contract work and meets ISO specifications.

Check out a casting company's history and reputation before doing business

If you value a record of long and credible experience in the companies you do business with, take a look at some of the oldest metal casting companies in the industry. You'll definitely find a metal casting company you can feel confident working with.

I recommend: Post Precision has produced castings in a job shop since 1964 and now offers a wealth of information to customers about saving money on commercial investment castings. Boose Aluminum Foundry has supplied aluminum sand castings to customers since 1933.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure the casting company you choose to work with maintains an ISO certification and renews it every six months. Check to see if it has other quality certifications as well.
• •  Call the casting manufacturer and see if they have a customer service representative you can speak to for further information about what the company has to offer your business.