Define the casting process.

• A. Pouring molten metal into a mold and allowing it to cool and solidify to produce a part that is near net shape
• B. Cutting metal from a larger billet to form shape
• C. Joining parts by welding
• D. Molding plastic at high pressure

Answer: (A)

Casting is the process of pouring molten metal into a mold and letting it cool and solidify to produce a part that is near net shape. The mold defines the external geometry, and sometimes cores create internal features, allowing complex shapes to be formed in one step. This method is often economical for components with intricate or large geometries, since it reduces the amount of material removal needed later. After solidification, some finishing may be required to meet precise tolerances or surface finishes.

Cutting metal from a larger billet is machining—a subtractive process. Joining parts by welding is a fabrication/joining process. Molding plastic at high pressure is injection molding for plastics, not metal casting.