Sand Casting

Sand casting is a metal manufacturing process where molten metal is poured into a mould made of compacted sand shaped to the desired part geometry. Once the metal cools and solidifies, the sand mould is broken away to reveal the finished casting. This process is widely used because it allows for complex shapes, large parts, and a wide range of metal alloys to be produced cost-effectively, especially for low to medium production volumes.

Improve Your Competitive Advantage with Canadian Offshore Solutions

Canadian manufacturers may choose to offshore production of some parts to reduce manufacturing costs, access specialized production capabilities, and increase overall competitiveness. Offshoring can provide access to advanced tooling, higher-volume production facilities, or materials that are not readily available domestically. By strategically offshoring select components, manufacturers can improve supply chain flexibility, shorten lead times for certain products, and focus Canadian operations on higher-value activities such as engineering, assembly, and quality control.

Here is a list of automotive parts that are commonly produced using sand casting, especially when complex shapes or thicker sections are required:

Engine blocks
Cylinder heads
Intake manifolds
Exhaust manifolds
Transmission housings
Differential housings
Transfer case housings
Oil pans (cast metal designs)
Bell housings
Water pump housings
Turbocharger housings
Brake calipers (some designs)
Steering gear housings
Flywheel housings
Suspension brackets and mounts

Sand casting is well suited for these components because it accommodates internal passages, varying wall thicknesses, and complex geometries while keeping tooling costs relatively low.