Properties of Custom Steel Castings
Custom steel castings are widely used in industries that require high strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. Due to their excellent mechanical and chemical properties, stainless steel castings are essential in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, oil & gas, and food processing.
Take Stainless Steel Casting as an example.
Stainless steel casting has below types:
- Austenitic Stainless Steel (e.g., 304, 316)
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- High ductility and toughness
- Non-magnetic
- Commonly used in food processing, chemical, and marine applications
- Martensitic Stainless Steel (e.g., 410, 420)
- High strength and hardness
- Moderate corrosion resistance
- Magnetic properties
- Used in cutlery, valves, and turbine parts
- Duplex Stainless Steel (e.g., 2205)
- Combination of austenitic and ferritic properties
- High strength and superior corrosion resistance
- Ideal for harsh environments like oil & gas and chemical processing
Manufacturing Process of Stainless Steel Castings
Below key steps are involved:
- Pattern Making – A replica of the desired part is created using wood, plastic, or metal.
- Mold Preparation – The pattern is used to form a mold, typically made of sand or ceramic.
- Melting & Pouring – Stainless steel is melted in a furnace and poured into the mold.
- Cooling & Solidification – The molten metal cools and takes the shape of the mold.
- Finishing – The casting is removed, cleaned, and machined to meet precise specifications.
Common casting methods include:
- Sand Casting (cost-effective for large parts)
- Investment Casting (high precision for complex shapes)
- Die Casting (suitable for high-volume production)
Advantages of Stainless Steel Castings
- Corrosion Resistance – Ideal for harsh and corrosive environments.
- High Strength & Durability – Suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- Design Flexibility – Complex geometries can be achieved with casting.
- Cost-Effective – Reduces the need for machining and assembly of multiple parts.
- Temperature Resistance – Performs well in extreme heat or cryogenic conditions.
Applications:
- Automotive – Engine components, exhaust systems, and turbocharger housings.
- Aerospace – Turbine blades, landing gear parts, and structural components.
- Medical – Surgical instruments, implants, and dental equipment.
- Oil & Gas – Valves, pumps, and pipeline fittings.
- Food & Beverage – Processing equipment, mixers, and storage tanks.