Tag Archives: Foundries

Near Net Shape to Reduce Waste, Lower Cost and Save Time

A series of black cast iron bollards created from a traditional pattern

Near net shape manufacturing is a planned production process that aims to make an object as close to its final shape as possible. Near net shape manufacturing minimizes waste, lowers costs, and reduces the time needed to produce a finished item. A near net shape manufacturing process is cost efficient and better for the environment, demanding less energy and resources.

Introduction to Cast Iron: History, Types, Properties, and Uses

Cast iron parts at a foundry

The presence of iron in everyday life began in about 1200 BCE, encompassing a wide range of uses from farming implements to weapons of war. Blacksmiths became a critical profession, working with iron to change its properties and shape the material into tools. Every village and town would have a blacksmith’s shop, where sickles, plowshares, nails, swords, candlestick holders, and more were produced.