A Comparison of Die Casting vs. Metal Shaping

When in need of automobile components and die cast parts, one may come across die casters and a process called metal stamping. Approach the die casters in Mexico if casting aluminum, zinc, and brass is the need of the hour. However, it would be better to know the difference between die casting and metal stamping when on the hunt. Obviously, to make the components with ideal design and through global equipment and processes – one between the two manufacturing methods are needed.

The Two Manufacturing Concepts Explained

As a throwback to classic manufacturing processes, the casting of a given die involves forcing molten metal into the die cavity, forming the shape through applied force or thermal force, and continuing the cycle until the molten die solidifies. Hot chambers are used usually, and most have goosenecks and melting pots that help to fill the die material into the die cavity.

In metal shaping, however, a metal sheet is fed into a hydraulic or mechanical press with the rest of the process remaining the same. Metal shaping also uses applied force and high pressure to form the desired shape in an alloy wheel.

Features of Both Types of Metal Making

Metal shaping can be done using both ferrous as well as a non-ferrous die, whereas non-ferrous die gives green die cast parts. With increasing complexity in the manufacturing process and product design, sustainable casting gives thin wall and thick wall components that are durable.

Metal stamping would leave a significant amount of metal scrap in the landfill, the exact measurement of which depends on the component needs. Likewise, metal casting would also feed the need for large volume automobile components.

Which one to Choose

The die casters in Mexico have had their say on this matter, and now is the turn of automobile makers or any other industry to choose metal casting over metal shaping or vice versa. As metal stamping consists of large sized metal sheets, one may opt to stamp parts. However, if protecting the environment is the need of the hour at the factory, choose to die cast parts in materials like aluminum, zinc, and brass.

Where there is a need for metal parts, an ancillary industry unit would thrive on both processes and most of the experienced OEMs would cast vote as per their business requirements.