| Aspect | Die Casting | Permanent Mold Casting |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Molten metal is injected under high pressure into a metal mold (die) | Molten metal is poured into a reusable metal mold by gravity |
| Mold Material | High-grade steel molds | Typically cast iron or steel molds |
| Pressure | High pressure | Low pressure (gravity-fed) |
| Production Volume | Ideal for high-volume production | Suitable for medium-volume production |
| Surface Finish | Excellent surface finish | Good surface finish |
| Tolerance | Tight tolerances | Moderate tolerances |
| Strength | High strength due to rapid solidification | Good strength |
| Complexity | Can produce complex shapes with fine details | Can produce complex shapes, but with less detail compared to die casting |
| Cost | Higher initial mold cost, lower per-piece cost for high volumes | Lower initial mold cost, higher per-piece cost for low to medium volumes |
| Applications | Automotive parts, consumer electronics, aerospace components | Gear housings, engine blocks, valve bodies |
| Material Use | Typically non-ferrous metals like aluminum, zinc, magnesium | Both ferrous and non-ferrous metals |
| Cycle Time | Faster cycle times due to high-pressure injection | Slower cycle times due to gravity pouring |
Conclusion:
Die casting is highly efficient for large-scale production of complex, high-strength components with excellent surface finishes, making it ideal for automotive and electronics industries. Permanent mold casting, while less precise and slower, offers versatility and is cost-effective for medium-volume production of robust components.