02 Capabilities / Low pressure

Low pressure die casting for larger, sound aluminium parts.

Low pressure die casting fills the mould from below, pushing molten aluminium up through a riser tube under gentle, controlled pressure. The low-turbulence fill gives larger and thicker-section castings lower porosity and a more consistent grain structure. Solstice sources low pressure castings through audited Far East partner foundries, machines them to your drawing and manages everything from the UK.

When to choose it

When low pressure is the right choice

Larger, thicker parts

Suits components too big or too heavy-sectioned for HPDC.

Soundness

Controlled, bottom-up filling reduces trapped air and oxide inclusions.

Consistent properties

A more uniform grain structure through the part.

Heat treatable

Low pressure castings can usually be heat treated for extra strength.

Good metal yield

Less metal lost to risers and gating than gravity casting.

Low pressure at a glance

Material

Aluminium

Alloys

A356 / LM25 equivalents

Best for

Larger, thicker sections

Heat treatable

Yes

Comparison

Low pressure vs gravity vs HPDC

	HPDC	Gravity	Low pressure
Best for	High volume, thin walls	Strength, pressure-tightness	Larger, thicker sections
Porosity	Higher	Low	Lowest
Heat treatable	Generally no	Yes	Yes
Cycle time	Fastest	Slower	Slower

Process

Cast, then machined

Critical faces, bores, ports and mounting features are CNC machined to print in the same production run. Leak testing, shot blasting, powder coating and sub-assembly can be included, so parts arrive ready to fit.

Materials

Aluminium alloys, e.g. A356 / LM25 equivalents.

Typical parts

Larger housings, structural and chassis components, wheels, pump and compressor bodies.

FAQ

Common questions

How do I know if my part suits low pressure or gravity?

Size, wall thickness, volume and required strength all play a part. Send the drawing and we'll recommend the process at quote stage.

Can you transfer an existing low pressure tool?

Yes, existing tooling can be transferred or new tools built.