What kinds of stuff do foundries make?
Automotive Automobiles and other transportation equipment use nearly 35% of all castings produced. Engine blocks, braking components and piston are just a few of the cast parts used in motor vehicles. In addition to the many iron castings used in autos, strong lightweight aluminum castings consumption in motor vehicles continues to grow at a rapid rate. This has helped reduce overall vehicle weight, improving gas mileage. U.S.-made cars contain about 150 pounds of aluminum castings, and projects call for 180 pounds per car by 2004. Construction Industry Every home contains more than a ton of castings from bathtubs, pipes, sinks and fixtures to the furnace, air conditioner and other home appliances. And, castings are also an essential component of construction equipment. Defense The metalcasting industry is essential to the national defense of our country. Approximately 10% of all castings are produced soley for military application. Tanks, planes, ships, weapons and a myriad of other m