Aluminum Casting – What to Prepare for a Quote
We quote custom aluminum castings based on the part documentation. The more complete the information in your inquiry, the faster and more accurate our offer – and the fewer questions during production. Below is a list of what to prepare, along with the factors that determine the price of a casting.
What to prepare for an aluminum casting quote
- Technical drawing – with dimensions, tolerances and marked machined surfaces.
- 3D model – preferably in STEP format; it makes it easier to assess the technology and make the mold.
- Alloy – grade per PN-EN 1706, e.g. EN AC-42000, or, if not specified, the requirements the material must meet.
- Material condition – e.g. as-cast (F) or heat-treated (T6).
- Quantity – size of the first batch and expected annual orders.
- Machining and finishing – whether the casting is to be finish-machined, powder coated (RAL color), ground or polished.
- Acceptance requirements – casting tolerance grade, permissible defects, tests or documents that must accompany the delivery.
- Lead time – when the first castings are needed and what series deliveries should look like.
Don't have everything? A sketch or a photo of the part is enough for an initial conversation, but dimensions are required for a quote. If you only have the finished part, it can be scanned and a CAD model recreated. You will find the full list of data and an inquiry template in the guide foundry quote request.
What determines the price of a casting
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| technology and tooling | a pattern for sand molds is cheaper than a permanent mold, and a permanent mold is cheaper than a die casting die |
| production volume | tooling cost is spread across the number of pieces |
| weight and alloy | more metal and a more expensive alloy raise the cost |
| shape complexity | cores, thin walls and tight tolerances lengthen preparation |
| machining and finishing | CNC machining, heat treatment and painting are separate operations |
For larger series it is worth considering design changes that simplify the mold – for example, a different parting plane position or eliminating a core. We will be glad to suggest them. The price components and how to compare quotes are described in the article how much an aluminum casting costs.
In short: to get a quote for an aluminum casting, prepare the drawing, 3D model, alloy, material condition, quantity, machining and finishing requirements, acceptance requirements and lead time. The price depends mainly on the technology, series size, weight, shape complexity and machining.
See also: how an order is carried out, how to choose a casting technology i aluminum casting alloys.
Ready for a quote? Send a drawing or 3D model to odlewnia@adjatech.pl or call: +48 61 662 43 37 (Mon–Fri 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.).
Scope of services: foundry production capabilities.