Flexibility

• According to the North American Die Casters Association, casting offers the highest level of flexibility of all metalworking techniques. It is used on a broad range of materials and product designs, and is even used to create exceptionally large components. Unlike milling or machining techniques, in which the product must fit inside a piece of machinery, casting requires only that the manufacturer produce a mold or die of the correct size. This helps speed the manufacturing process by eliminating the need to join components together in a separate step. It also reduces the presence of joints and seams caused by welding or forging, which detracts from the aesthetic and functional properties of an object. Casting objects in a single step also eliminates the need for assembly, which helps cut labor and costs.
  
  

Efficiency

• Casting provides economic advantages to manufacturers. According to the Steel Founder Society of America, casting is appropriate for mass production. By producing objects in large quantities, companies realize lower price points based on volume, resulting in higher sales. Techniques like milling and machining require companies to make products one at a time inside a machine. In order to mass-produce objects, the company requires a large volume of machines, which means a significant capital investment. Casting only requires the use of molds, which are relatively cheap and easy to make. By using multiple molds at the same time, the company is able to produce several units at once to shorten production time and increase productivity.
  
  

Finish Conditions

• The casting process poses challenges in terms of surface finish. While the object may take on the desired shape and size, its surface properties are difficult to control or predict. This could result in porous surfaces that allow moisture or germs to penetrate the object, or in a pitted and unattractive finish. If surface properties are a primary concern, additional grinding or polishing may be required after casting. In this case, machining or milling may serve as more effective metalworking techniques.
  
  

Accuracy and Tolerances

• Casting also poses difficulties when it comes to accuracy and precision. On large objects, small inaccuracies in measurement may not be a cause of concern. When it comes to smaller or more detailed pieces, casting may not allow for precise construction. In some cases, it is simply too difficult or impossible to create a mold that allows for proper tolerances. Milling or micromilling machines offer a more effective technique for creating products with precise measurements.