The
flexibility of the foundry extends to the moulding platforms. Large castings,
normally made from loose patterns, and smaller, higher volume castings off
loose, compact or plated pattern, can be simultaneously processed using a
combination of fixed moulding points under long reach mixers, a track production
line and an adjacent green sand area for small moulds.
We retain the skills of hand moulding allowing us to make multilayered moulds for complex castings without the restrictions of a designated box size. We mould from disposable polystyrene patterns as well as traditional wood and aluminium.
Much of our work is for engineering applications such as pump bodies, water industry castings and pipework for industrial engines and compressors, but we also cast architectural castings to customer designs.
Shown above, is an unusual cylinder casting manufactured for the restoration of a steam locomotive and is probably one of only a handful made in the last 40 years. Picture Library
The quality of the metal is a priority and assured from the outset by careful purchasing of source materials, during melting by the measurement and adjustment of key elements, and temperature management to ensure the correct pouring temperature for each job is applied.
Monitoring and refinement of chemical analysis is achieved with an on site spectrometer. Post casting testing and certification will include tensile strength and microscopic structure where required.
Castings are visually inspected prior to dispatch and close monitoring and reporting of any quality problems leads to the minimisation of scrap. We are continually reviewing and improving our quality procedures.
Customers require a flexible and rapid response where quality matters and deliveries are concerned. Both these issues are always dealt with as priorities and we regularly deliver non-stock castings such as press tools or spares within a few days of a customer order.
