The foundry industry is evolving considerably from traditional mode to a digital model. Emphasis has been made on the fact that traditional industries are going ‘digital’ or changing the way they do business, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 and its spiralling effects on the economy. And change became the order of the day, as many traditional businesses that were conservative in direction and approach went ‘digital’. What we see now is the outcome of the various digital methods and tools employed for operational transformation. This blog will, however, deal with the factors that will shape the foundry and die caster industry of the future. We, at VR Foundries, are aware of the trends that are shaping metal castings. We present five typical areas of development to understand as they well define what’s important to the technologies and the businesses.

Aluminium displacing steel:

There are a number of reasons for aluminium displacing steel. The auto industry, like aerospace, needs lighter components and accessories. But an important factor is the stability of aluminium. In the area of mechanical engineering, this material also goes into demanding tasks. In 2017, about 6 percent more aluminium was produced globally compared to 2016. The finished product’s cost is reduced due to advanced production technologies.

Automation replacing skilled workers:

Foundries all over the world are witnessing automation at different levels, and this means reduced workforce. In order to stay competitive, metalcasters depend on semi-automated or fully autonomous system to enhance or maintain their output. Employers will be able to invest more time and resources in the areas of design, development and testing, and this, in turn, should raise the interest levels of young workers in the career of metal casting. 

There are more factors to be discussed, which will lead us to the concluding part of the two-part blog series.