 RIM vs. Aluminum Casting
Outside features in aluminum casting can be cast in, but any internal features must be cast or machined as a secondary operation. RIM allows these features to be molded in for reduced assembly. Both methods allow for variable wall thickness- down to 0.60” for aluminum casting, and from .125" to 1.125" in RIM.
Materials cannot be encapsulated with aluminum casting. Only RIM can encapsulate metals, electronics, and other parts for optimum protection and strength.
Compared to RIM, the finish quality of aluminum casted parts is low; and RIM can take paint, silk screening and texturing better for improved branding.
Both processes are appropriate for small run volumes, but are not cost-effective when dealing with larger quantities (over 500/mo.).
RIM tooling lead times are shorter than for aluminum casting, and since Exothermic uses in-house, feature-based machining they can reduce processing and assembly time and create production molds within 2 to 4 weeks.
Both RIM and aluminum casting require a low up-front cost, although RIM is slightly more cost-effective if tooling modification will be needed.
With RIM, you can create very large, light-weight, low-cost parts that would otherwise be limited in design with aluminum casting.
Though these are some of the main considerations to account for when deciding on a production process, there are many issues to balance when determining the most effective option. Let Exothermic help you uncover the opportunities for success and guide your design concept to meet those process needs. |
