Steel castings by sand and investment casting.
When a part needs steel's strength or wear resistance, die casting isn't an option: steel's melting point is too high for conventional die-casting tooling. Instead, Solstice sources carbon and stainless steel parts by sand or investment casting through audited Far East partner foundries. They are machined to your drawing and delivered through the same UK-managed process as the rest of the range.
Sand or investment casting?
| Sand casting | Investment casting | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Larger, heavier parts | Smaller, intricate parts |
| Surface finish | Rougher, more machining | Fine, near-net shape |
| Tooling cost | Lower | Higher |
| Detail | Moderate | High |
When steel is the right choice
Cast, then machined
Sealing and mating faces, bores, threads and drilled patterns are CNC machined to print as part of the same order. Heat treatment, shot blasting, coating and inspection can be coordinated so parts arrive ready to fit.
Common questions
Why can't steel be die cast?
Steel melts at around 1,400–1,500 °C, far above what die-casting tool steels can repeatedly withstand. That's why steel parts are sand or investment cast instead.
What do I need to get a quote?
A 2D or 3D drawing, material grade, annual volume and finish requirements. A sample part works too.