Metal Stamping VS die Casting

In the field of metal manufacturing today, metal stamping and die casting are the most popular technologies. Both technologies are ways of forming metals and are widely used in various industries, but which one is the best manufacturing solution? Let’s judge by this article.

Table of contents

• Definition of metal stamping and die casting
• The difference between metal stamping and metal die casting
• Factors to be considered when selecting metal stamping parts and metal die casting parts
• The benefits of metal stamping for manufacturing projects
• Advantages of metal die casting in manufacturing projects
• Practical project example of metal stamping
• Practical project examples of metal die casting
• Conclusion

We should know the definition of both

‌Metal stamping is the process of plastic deformation of metallic materials by placing them in a die and applying impact or pressure forces to them.

Pressure casting refers to the casting method in which molten or semi-molten metal is shot into a metal mold at high speed and crystallized under pressure.

The difference between metal stamping and metal die casting

The common property of stamping and die casting is forming, and both are suitable for mass production, but their final products are different.

Metal stamping parts are usually simple and moderately complex parts, such as washers, brackets, etc.

Metal die castings are usually parts with high precision and complex shapes, such as automotive parts, electronic housings, etc.

Factors to consider when choosing metal stamping and metal die casting

There are several factors to consider when choosing between stamping or die casting.

Due to the complexity of the product, metal stamping is limited by the mold and is usually more suitable for the production of simple two-dimensional parts. In contrast, metal die casting takes advantage of the fact that molten metal can flow into the mold and is suitable for producing complex three-dimensional parts.

Output and cost, both are suitable for large quantities, but the mold cost difference is more than 50%. Usually, because the shape of the die casting is more complex than the stamping part, the cost of the die casting die is higher than the cost of the stamping die.

Materials, metal stamping usually use ductile metals, such as steel, aluminum, copper, etc. However, metal die casting can use a wider range of metals, such as aluminum, zinc, magnesium, high hardness alloys, and so on.

Benefits of metal stamping for manufacturing projects

Compared with the cost of die casting molds, the cost of metal stamping molds is lower.

Efficiency, the efficiency of stamping is usually higher than that of die casting, which means more cost savings.

Consistency, the characteristics of the metal stamping die ensure that every part is the same, and this advantage is especially important in projects with tight tolerances.

Flexible, the stamping die can be modified or partially replaced. For example, circular covers with the same diameter but different openings, some of their molds can be shared.

Advantages of metal die casting in manufacturing projects

For products with complex shapes, the die casting process allows the creation of parts with notches, internal cavities, and other complex shapes that are difficult or even impossible to achieve with metal stamping.

High precision and surface finish, the surface of the product after die casting is smooth and consistent, and there is little need for secondary processing, such as polishing.

For a wider range of materials, die casting can use high-precision alloys.

Example of a practical project for metal stamping

Auto parts: door hinges, seat belt brackets, engine components, exhaust pipe brackets, etc.

Household appliances: refrigerator rack, washing machine basin, oven rack, etc.

Electronic case: computer, mobile phone, TV, etc.

Fasteners: gaskets, clamps, brackets, etc.

A practical project example of metal die casting

Auto parts: engine block, transmission housing, brake calipers and so on.

Electronics: tablet cases, game consoles, etc.

Medical instruments: surgical instruments, prosthetics, implants, etc.

Sporting goods: Golf club heads, bicycle parts, firearm parts, etc.

Conclusion: Make the best choice for your manufacturing project

When choosing metal stamping or die casting, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the final choice is based on a variety of factors. If the project requires simple parts, metal stamping will be your best choice. On the other hand, if the project requires strict tolerance requirements and complex parts, metal die casting will be more suitable. Finally, when choosing between metal stamping and die casting, the requirements of the project should be comprehensively evaluated.