What Is Metal Mold Casting
Metal mold casting refers to casting processes that use reusable metal molds, typically made from steel or cast iron, instead of disposable sand or ceramic molds.
Two major categories dominate industrial use:
Permanent Mold Casting (PMC)
Molten metal fills the mold by gravity (or low pressure)Die Casting (DC)
Molten metal is injected into the mold under high pressure
Both deliver better consistency and surface quality than sand casting — but their cost structure, materials, and design limits differ significantly.
Typical workflow:
Permanent Mold Casting vs. Sand Casting vs. Die Casting
Materials Commonly Used
Permanent Mold Casting — Typical Materials
Aluminum alloys (primary application)
Magnesium alloys (common)
Copper alloys (limited use due to high thermal load and mold wear)
Die Casting — Typical Materials
Aluminum alloys (ADC12, A380)
Zinc alloys (Zamak 3, Zamak 5)
Magnesium alloys
Steel and high-melting alloys are not suitable
Cost, Quality, and Production Reality
Typical Applications & Parts
