At SinoScan, we specialise in providing high-quality, precision-engineered metal castings through our sand casting process. With over 25 years of experience in manufacturing, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results for a wide range of industries, from automotive to agriculture.

Based in the UK, our local team of expert engineers works closely with clients to provide full support from the initial design phase to mass production.

What is Sand Casting?

Sand casting, also known as sand mould casting, is a process where molten metal is poured into a sand-based mould, which is created around a pattern of the component. After the metal solidifies, the sand mould is broken apart to reveal the final casting.

This versatile technique is suitable for producing complex shapes and large parts, making it ideal for a range of industrial applications.

Sand casting allows us to work with a variety of metals, including aluminium, cast iron, steel, and bronze. The process’s flexibility allows us to produce high-performance components that meet precise requirements, whether you’re working on a small prototype or a large-scale production run.

The Sand Casting Process at SinoScan

At SinoScan, we employ a thorough and controlled sand-casting process to ensure the highest level of quality and precision for every part we produce. Our casting techniques follow these key steps:

• Pattern Design – The process starts by designing and creating a pattern, which is a detailed model of the part we will cast. Our engineers collaborate with clients to make sure the pattern meets project needs. They also consider important factors like how the material will shrink as it cools.
• Pattern Creation  – Once the pattern is ready, the mould is created using a mixture of sand, clay, and water. The sand is compacted around the pattern to form a solid and stable mould to achieve the desired shape. In cases where complex internal features are required, we use cores made of sand or other materials.
• Mould Removal – After the sand has been compacted around the pattern, the pattern is carefully removed to create a hollow cavity in the shape of the part. This mould is then assembled and ready for metal pouring.
• Molten Metal Pouring – The selected metal is melted in a furnace to the required temperature and poured into the mould. At SinoScan, we work with various alloys, including aluminium, cast iron, bronze, and steel. Pouring the molten metal fills the cavity, solidifying it into the shape of the original pattern.
• Cooling and Solidification – Once the metal has been poured, it is allowed to cool and solidify. The cooling time depends on the size and complexity of the casting, and we ensure that the process is controlled to maintain the material’s integrity and strength.
• Mould Removal and Finishing – After cooling, the sand mould is removed, and the casting is cleaned to remove any residual sand or debris.

Any necessary finishing operations, such as machining, grinding, or polishing, are performed to ensure the casting meets the required surface finish and dimensional accuracy.

Why Choose Sand Casting?

Sand casting provides several key benefits that make it a preferred method for many applications. These include:

• Design Flexibility – From simple shapes to highly complex geometries, sand casting allows for a wide range of design possibilities. The process is ideal for producing intricate parts that require fine details or unique features.
• Cost-Effective – Sand casting is a cost-effective solution, particularly for low to medium-volume production. It’s ideal for custom or prototype parts and large-scale manufacturing. The relatively low tooling costs make it accessible for a wide variety of projects.
• Material Versatility – We can cast a variety of materials. This includes metals like cast iron, steel, aluminium, and bronze, both ferrous and non-ferrous. This versatility makes sand casting suitable for many industries, from automotive to aerospace to agriculture.
• Suitable for Large Parts – Sand casting is particularly well-suited for producing large, heavy-duty components. Manufacturers often use it to make strong and durable parts like engine blocks, pump housings, and turbine blades.
• Low Tooling Costs – Unlike other casting methods, sand casting requires minimal tooling, which keeps production costs down. This makes it an excellent choice for short runs and low to medium production volumes.

Applications of Sand Casting

The flexibility of sand casting makes it applicable across many industries, including:

• Automotive – Sand casting is often used in the automotive industry to make important parts like engine blocks, cylinder heads, and transmission components. The process is ideal for producing large, complex components that require strength and durability.
• Industrial Machinery – Manufacturers commonly use sand casting to produce industrial machinery components, including gears, housings, shafts, and frames. These parts need to withstand heavy stress, and sand casting offers the strength and stability required for such applications.
• Agriculture – Sand casting is important for the agricultural sector. SinoScan helps agricultural clients make strong parts, such as pump housings, equipment frames, and machinery components. You can read more in our case study on agricultural sand casting with Fasterholt. In this project, we closely teamed up with a client to make custom parts that perform well in tough working conditions.

Why Choose SinoScan for Sand Casting?

With over 25 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, SinoScan has built a strong reputation for supplying high-quality sand castings.

We ensure all technical and commercial aspects are considered at an early stage. This enables SinoScan to deliver a seamless product introduction ensuring that every casting meets the exact specifications required. Whether you’re working on a small batch, a prototype, or large-scale production, we provide expert guidance, precise manufacturing, and timely delivery of the final product.

Contact SinoScan Today

If you are interested in our sand casting services or any other of our production methods, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We are here to help you bring your designs to life with the highest level of quality and efficiency. Contact SinoScan today for a consultation or to discuss your next casting project.