How Do I Develop A New Component From A Concept?

If you have an idea for a cast component, there can be a big difference between a concept that’s technically achievable, and one that’s objectively most suitable for its final application.

You might have a good grasp on the functionality and aesthetics required, but without a solid understanding of casting processes and outcomes, your component could still fall short of its potential.

For many OEMs, a casting needs to be:

  • Economical to produce
  • Repeatable at scale
  • Reliable on application
  • Manufactured within a fixed timescale.

Without the right expertise, it’s difficult to know if a concept will hit all these notes, and – crucially – if they could be improved further.

That’s where we come in.

MRT's technical team have been working with our customers to design successful cast components for over 75 years.

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We work in partnership with OEMs to develop new components from initial concepts, while using our advanced knowledge to adapt the design and ensure its fully optimised for manufacture.

By leveraging our experience alongside the latest technology (such as Solidworks CAD Modelling Software and MAGMAsoft casting simulation), we can achieve innovative designs that can be manufactured within tightly controlled parameters. Furthermore, the costs of machining, surface finishing and assembly can also be dramatically reduced if we are consulted early in the design process.

What is our concept-to-component process?

First of all, our experts will take a look at your design concept so far. This can be a finished CAD model, or even just a rough sketch. We’ll be happy to sign an NDA if you need us to.

After reviewing your designs, we’ll meet with you to fully understand the application and discuss your design and manufacturing options.

Using our three seats of Solidworks, we’ll then optimise your design for manufacture. This includes adding taper, gating and ejection points for the casting.

We’ll then submit our design proposal for your consideration, along with quotations for the various manufacturing options.

Do you need prototypes before you commit to production tools?

No problem.

It’s not unusual to manufacture prototypes for evaluation, testing and marketing purposes. We can use your CAD data to create 3D printed prototypes, or even machine them from solid or sand castings.

We’ll take care of your tooling, too.

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Working with our specialist tooling partners, MRT will design and manufacture production tooling on your behalf. Our in-house tool room allows us to expertly create machining fixtures and tooling modifications, while new toolmaking projects are completed by a trusted group of specialist sub-contractors.

We’ll continue to oversee this part of the process as if it was taking place in-house, so you can be confident that your project is running to plan - without any additional management time from your team.

Before you know it, your component will be ready for production; on time, to specification and at the highest quality.

Ready to discuss a casting idea?

MRT Castings are experts with over 75 years’ experience in the manufacture of high-quality aluminium die castings, across a wide range of applications and industries.

Ready to discuss a casting idea?

MRT Castings are experts with over 75 years’ experience in the manufacture of high-quality aluminium and zinc die castings, across a wide range of applications and industries.

Simply get in touch today and we’ll be happy to assist with your next project.

Have you seen our latest content offer? Download ‘Notes for Designers’ HERE

Contact us today to find out how we can support you with your next project.

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