Permanent Mold The Permanent Mold process is typically the most economical of the casting processes because the molds are usually made of high-alloy iron or steel, and can be expected to produce upwards of 125,000 castings. Product is manufactured by introducing molten aluminum into the "gating system" (grooves cut next to the mold cavities, where the castings are formed) that allow a controlled introduction of material at pre-determined feed rates. Key Benefits:    Very economical as a producer of high volume castings.    Allows multiple cavities for increased production.    Superior to other processes as to casting soundness and pressure tight requirements.    Casting surfaces are generally smoother and cosmetically acceptable.    Very rapid solidification increases material strength and mechanical properties.    Typically need less finish-machining and can enhance ability to hold tight dimensional tolerances. Applications:    Pistons, cylinder heads, and internal combustion engine parts    Aviation applications    Textile machine parts    Automotive transmission components