Basics of Gravity Casting, Gravity Die Casting and Learn
About Gravity Casting
Metal
Casting is more than just an excuse to play with molten metal it is actually a
great way to create art and complicated pieces of machinery or other items that
would otherwise be nearly impossible to make. Metal Casting is really a great
way to save money…while playing with molten metal.
The reason that Metal Casting has survived the test of time is a matter or
efficiency. Some of the earliest casting examples have been found in China dating
back thousands and thousands of years. In fact every major civilization from
the Egyptians to the Romans practiced metal casting. This skill came back into
vogue during the Renaissance and has continued to advance and evolve from
there. While Sand Casting is the most popular casting process there are many,
many more processes available to the backyard foundries.
Not everyone is going to be casting heavy pieces like engine parts or cast
their own motorcycles. So for those that just want to make decorative pieces
you will not be using the same casting process as these heavy duty
casters. For artists creating small scale statues or embellishes and for
hobbyists that need a decorative touch to their model plane or boat might want
to consider using gravity casting for their needs.
Gravity casting seems to be especially useful when dealing with aluminum and
other light alloys. The basic idea behind this casting process is pretty much
exactly what the name suggests. The metal is introduced into the mold by the
force of gravity. Most other casting process either use natural pressure
difference like the kind in certain sand casting procedures or they use
forced pressure like in centrifugal casting to get the molten metal into the
mold.
One of the most common uses for gravity casting is when permanent molds are
going to be used. Also called a die, the permanent mold is really only
economical for those planning on using the same mold numerous times and will
need to keep the quality at a constant level. While some temporary molds can be
repeatedly used the quality of the finished product will begin to suffer over
time. With die molds the quality will remain the same. Die molds should be seen
as an investment. Yes, they will be more costly then other molds; however they
will outlast cheaper options for molds. With Permanent molds, they are created
using cast iron, steel, and other metals.
Gravity casting is used for the permanent mold process with pleasing
results. Gravity casting is usually used when the finished product is more
visually based then structurally based which is why this method is a favorite
of artists and even some jewelers. The loss of strength is due to the lack
of pressure used in this process. For those that need the strength but still
want to use gravity casting, more of the molten metal will need to be used
which will increase the weight.
Relying on gravity will take patience, although it will be needed for larger
products.
If you have never tried gravity casting then you should, because you just may
be surprised by what such a simple thing like gravity can create. For the sake
of humor , make an apple and see what happens.
About the author
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