Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Gravity die casting, also known as permanent mold casting, is a metal casting process where molten metal is poured into a reusable steel or cast iron mold (die) under the force of gravity, rather than high pressure, to produce precise metal parts. Unlike pressure die casting, which uses high-pressure injection, gravity die casting relies on the natural flow of molten metal to fill the mold.

1.Process:

Mold Preparation: The steel or cast iron die, typically in two halves, is coated with a release agent and preheated to improve metal flow and prevent thermal shock.

Pouring: Molten metal (commonly aluminum, magnesium, or zinc) is poured into the die through a sprue, allowing gravity to fill the mold cavity.

Cooling: The metal cools and solidifies within the die, often aided by cooling channels in the mold.

Ejection: Once solidified, the die is opened, and the part is removed, often with the help of ejector pins.

Trimming/Finishing: Excess material, such as flash (thin metal seepage along parting lines), is trimmed, and the part may undergo additional machining or surface treatment.

2.Key Features:

Reusable Molds: Dies are made from durable materials for multiple uses, unlike sand casting, which uses disposable molds.

Materials: Primarily used for non-ferrous metals like aluminum, magnesium, and zinc alloys.

Low Pressure: Relies on gravity, not high-pressure injection, resulting in slower filling but simpler equipment.

3.Advantages:

High-Quality Parts: Produces parts with good surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical properties.

Cost-Effective for Medium Volumes: More economical than pressure die casting for medium production runs due to lower equipment costs.

Reduced Porosity: Slower filling reduces turbulence, leading to fewer internal defects compared to high-pressure die casting.

Durability: Reusable molds support consistent production over many cycles.

4.Disadvantages:

Slower Process: Gravity filling is slower than high-pressure die casting, limiting production speed.

Limited Complexity: Less suitable for extremely intricate parts or thin walls compared to pressure die casting.

Higher Labor: Manual pouring may increase labor costs unless automated.

5.Applications:

Automotive: Cylinder heads, pistons, wheel rims, and engine blocks.

Aerospace: Structural components requiring strength and precision.

Industrial: Pump housings, valve bodies, and machinery parts.

Consumer Goods: Cookware, lighting fixtures, and tool components.

6.Comparison to Pressure Die Casting:

Pressure Die Casting: Uses high-pressure injection for faster production and more complex geometries but requires expensive machinery. It’s ideal for high-volume production of intricate parts.

Gravity Die Casting: Simpler, less costly equipment, better for medium volumes and parts with simpler shapes. It offers better material properties due to slower cooling.

Companies like Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd. may offer gravity die casting as part of their services, particularly for aluminum parts, leveraging its benefits for medium-scale production with high-quality requirements.