Frequently Asked Questions

• Is tooling required to produce investment castings? Yes, machined aluminum tooling is required but at a relatively low cost when compared to die casting or metal injection molding.
  
  
• What is the expected tool life? If well maintained, tooling can last almost indefinitely. At EPCO we continue to produce castings from tooling that was fabricated decades ago.
  
  
• Is tooling the property of Engineered Precision Casting Co.? No, tooling is owned by the customer for their exclusive use but maintained by Engineered Precision Casting Co. In addition, Engineered Precision Casting Co. accepts transfer tooling with what usually amounts to only a minimum adaptation charge.
  
  
• What is the minimum casting lot size I can order? As a job shop, Engineered Precision Casting Co., Inc. is capable of supplying just one or two parts or filling orders for thousands. Since the size, alloy, and requirements of each casting vary, EPCO uses a minimum ship lot charge.
  
  
• What is the typical lead time for a casting? If new tooling is required, samples are supplied in 8 to 10 weeks. After sample approval, production castings can be supplied in 8 to 10 weeks for commercial and 10 to 12 weeks for aerospace programs.
  
  
• Can I expect the same quality from an investment casting as I can from bar stock? Yes. Engineered Precision Casting Co. castings routinely meet the same mechanical properties that you would expect from wrought materials.
  
  
• Do you stock parts? Are long term agreements or contracts available? Yes, stocking programs and long-term agreements are available.