Die Casting Process Step by Step: A Simple Buyer’s Guide

By Haijiang Lai

Owner at YongZhu Casting

As a supplier of aluminum casting for over 20 years, my purpose in discussing this topic is to talk with you about the growth of aluminum casting in this industry, and if you have a project you need to get off the ground.
Contact us today receive a solution, or Mail: yongzhucasting@gmail.com

Table of Contents

A practical step-by-step guide to help buyers understand how aluminum die casting works before ordering.

Many of our customers want to understand the die casting process before placing an order — not from an engineer’s point of view, but from a buyer’s. That’s exactly what this guide is for. After 20+ years manufacturing aluminum die cast parts, here’s how we walk through each stage with our customers.

Step 1: You Send an RFQ (Request for Quote)

This is where everything starts. Most of our clients send 2D drawings (like .dwg or .pdf) and 3D models (.stp or .igs), along with estimated order volume and annual forecast. If you don’t have exact files yet, that’s okay — a photo and rough idea of size, function, and material can also get the conversation going.

We usually reply within 1–2 working days with a quotation, basic feasibility check, and DFM suggestions (if needed).

Step 2: We Review Feasibility and Recommend DFM Changes

Not all designs are optimized for die casting. Thin ribs, deep blind holes, or undercuts may create tooling issues. Our team checks moldability, flow direction, wall thickness, draft angles, and ejection paths.

Most buyers receive suggestions like:

Original FeatureOur RecommendationWhy It’s Important
0.8 mm wall thicknessIncrease to ≥ 1.5 mmImproves filling and reduces porosity
No draft angleAdd 2–3° draftEases part ejection from die
Undercut detailsRedesign or removeAvoids need for complex sliding cores

We’ll revise our quotation if your design changes significantly.

Step 3: Tooling Design and Mold Fabrication

Once everything is confirmed, we begin designing the die. We typically use H13 or 8407 steel and apply nitriding or PVD coatings for longer life. For high-volume orders, we may recommend multi-cavity tooling or interchangeable inserts.

Depending on complexity, our mold lead time is 25–35 days. You’ll get 2D layout approval before cutting steel.

Step 4: Trial Runs and T1 Sample Submission

The first trial — often called “T1” — is used to test gate position, flow pattern, shrinkage allowance, and flash control. We use standard ADC12 aluminum alloy unless another grade is specified.

Buyers typically receive:

  • 5–10 sample pieces (T1)
  • Basic dimension inspection report
  • Photos/videos from the casting line
  • Surface finish check (e.g. raw, shot-blasted)

If revisions are needed, we adjust gate design, venting, or cavity polish. Usually, 1–2 trial rounds are enough.

Step 5: Mass Production

Once samples are approved, we enter stable production. Our standard die casting machines range from 160T to 800T, and for ADC12, our melting temp is 660–680°C. Injection pressure is typically 1000–1500 bar.

Here’s a quick summary of our typical production setup:

ParameterTypical Range
AlloyADC12 (JIS) or A383
Tolerance±0.05 mm (machined)
Cavity Temp200–250°C
Cycle Time30–60 seconds per shot
Batch Size500–50,000 pcs

After casting, we do trimming, shot blasting, CNC machining (if needed), and finish treatments like chromating, powder coating, or painting.

Step 6: Full Inspection and QC Documentation

We inspect 100% visually and apply QC protocols like:

  • Random sampling by AQL standards
  • CMM measurement on key dimensions
  • Leak test (for enclosures or flow parts)
  • Coating thickness test (for powder or plating)

All parts are packed according to your requirements — cartons, pallets, foam protection — and we provide:

  • Final inspection report
  • Certificate of conformance (if requested)
  • HS code and origin certificate (for customs)

Step 7: Shipping and Follow-Up

We arrange EXW, FOB, CIF, or DAP shipments based on your preference. For most Russian buyers, we work with forwarders familiar with local clearance rules.

Transit times (for reference):

Shipping MethodRegionTypical Transit Time
Truck + RailMoscow20–25 days
Sea + RailSt. Petersburg25–30 days
Air FreightAny city5–7 days

We follow up post-delivery to collect feedback and help with reorders or mold maintenance if needed.

Why This Step-by-Step Process Helps Buyers

Understanding each step makes your buying process easier — and gives you more confidence when comparing suppliers. We’ve helped hundreds of customers simplify their procurement decisions by offering clear timelines, open communication, and reliable production flow.

If you have an RFQ ready or just want to discuss your casting needs, feel free to reach out: yongzhucasting@gmail.com

Searching for High-Quality for Cast Aluminum Parts?

You’ve come to the right place! Yongzhu Casting is a certified die casting manufacturer with over 20 years of expertise in the industry.

We have successfully completed numerous die casting projects for Aluminum casting parts, particularly in your industry.

casting machine

Zhejiang Yongzhu Casting Technology Co., Ltd.

Location: Zhejiang, China

Company type: Manufacturers, Producers, Wholesalers

Year Founded: 2004

Main Products: Aluminium die castingMold MakingDie CastingSand CastingGravity Casting

Leading Chinese producer Yongzhu Casting is formerly known as Hangzhou Higer Metal Products Co., Ltd., was established in 2004.

With 20 years of experience in the industry, we are a specialized manufacturer in Aluminum casting and Machining.

Our products are widely used in various applications such as AutomotiveEnergyLightingMedicalHome FurnishingsMachinery & Equipment etc. Below are our advantages:

Design Review & DFM Support

Our professionals will evaluate your designs and provide suggestions for cost savings. Additionally, we offer Design for Manufacturing (DFM) assistance and conduct mold flow analyses to facilitate efficient production.

State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Equipment

Our facility is equipped with advanced hot-chamber and cold-chamber die casting machinery for aluminum and zinc production.

We also utilize high-precision CNC machines in a temperature-controlled workshop, featuring 3-Axis, 4-Axis and  5-Axis setups to manage any project you have.

Rigorous Quality Control Measures

Our dedicated quality control team ensures that all parts meet the highest standards of quality and consistency. We employ high-accuracy measurement instruments, including CMM, spectrometers, and X-ray detectors.

Comprehensive Surface Treatment Options

We provide a variety of surface finishing techniques for your precision die casting components. Our in-house services include cleaning, polishing, anodizing, shot blasting, and painting.

Flexible Project Acceptance

While larger manufacturers often shy away from low-volume projects, and smaller ones may struggle with quality, Yongzhu Casting stands apart. We prioritize customer satisfaction and willingly accept high-mix, low-volume projects like yours.

Yongzhu Casting Established in 2004, has become a leading name in the die-casting industry. We use die-castingsand-castingprecision casting and gravity casting, to cater various industries such as AutomotiveEnergyLighting, and Home Furnishings.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and explore tailored solutions. Mail: yongzhucasting@gmail.com

Hey, I’m LAI HAIJIANG the author of this article. 

Ready for professional aluminum castings for your project? Get in Touch with Yongzhu Casting today! Our casting experts will guide you through the entire process from mold to logistics, ensuring your aluminum castings arrive on time and exceed expectations.

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