Valukappaleiden

Valukappaleiden (Finnish for castings) are components produced by metal casting processes, wherein molten metal is poured into a mold and allowed to solidify before finishing. The term covers a broad range of shapes, sizes, and alloys used in many industries.

Common casting methods include sand casting, investment casting (lost-wax), die casting, and shell molding. Sand casting suits large or low-volume parts; investment casting provides near-net shapes and good surface finishes; die casting delivers high production rates and tight tolerances for non-ferrous alloys; shell molding offers a balance of surface finish and complexity. Typical materials include cast iron, steel, aluminum, copper alloys, and nickel-based alloys.

Design considerations include providing adequate draft to release the part from the mold, compensating for shrinkage, and integrating features such as fillets, ribs, and bosses to improve strength. Gating systems, risers, and feeders control metal flow and minimize defects. Finishing steps often involve fettling, machining, heat treatment, and surface treatment to meet specification.

Valukappaleiden are widely used in automotive components (manifolds, housings), machinery parts, plumbing fittings, electrical housings, and consumer products. They enable complex geometries and integrated features that may be difficult or costly to achieve with other manufacturing methods, though they can exhibit porosity, deformities, or residual stresses if processes are not properly controlled.

Quality control for castings includes dimensional inspection, visual checks, and non-destructive testing as required, along with process control of materials and temperature to ensure consistent properties. Standards and guidelines vary by country and industry and are tied to the specific casting method and alloy.