The Role of Associations & Groups in Metal Casting Industry

One of the most fundamental industries, metal casting continues to play a key role in manufacturing sector. It is one of the most widely used processes in production and process industries. The process is used in a variety of applications, including the critical components for aircraft and automobiles to home appliances and
surgical equipment, and is critical to the modern human life.

The Need for Industry Associations & Groups
Although metal casting is integral to manufacturing industry, it had not undergone any development for a very long period of time. The basic need for the formation of metal casting related associations was to address the needs of the industry and to develop the processes and techniques of casting. Some of the associations and groups formed by the companies are constantly dealing to make such proposed reforms and discuss the various problems and issues faced by the industry. Many of them have also come up with profound technical rectifications and several new proposals.

Aims & Objectives
Over the years, the basic aims and objectives of metal casting industry associations and groups have remain unchanged. Some of the important objectives of associations working for the metal casting industry are -

• Continuously work for the development of more refined metal casting techniques and processes.
• Help the member companies to improve their quality standards in this ever demanding industry.
• Work for the spread of appropriate technology.
• Work for the development of new innovations and inventions for the technological benefit of member companies.
• Help the member companies to cut their production costs and improve productivity.
• Address the different issues and problems, the industry is facing.

Fight Against Pollution
Companies working in the metal casting industry are often pressurized and accused for polluting the environment. Metal casting industry associations and groups are working in this area to help the member companies in proper disposal of pollutants. For instance, some of the associations have persuade the companies with operations close to each other to setup a common facility for the disposal of harmful pollutants. Many of the associations have setup their own norms and practices for member companies in this regard.

Safety of Manpower & Environment
It is also an important duty of associations to keep a tab on the safety of workers. The industry being a dangerous place to work in, the associations have dictated several safety norms to the member companies. These norms are also important from the point of view of avoiding any trouble or intervention from the Government.

Spreading Awareness
It is an important duty of industry associations to make the member companies and people aware of ongoing developments and research in the field of metal casting. The associations arrange international expos and exhibitions for the spread of knowledge. The associations also stand for their member companies in various seminars organized at the international level.

Commercial Aspects
The metal casting associations also function as exchange houses for commercial meetings. Many associations also help the member companies in understanding the market conditions and the ways to improve their profitability and financial stability.

Some of the important associations and groups working in the metal casting industry are -

• Casting Industry Suppliers Association
• Indiana Cast Metals Association
• Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries
• American Foundry Society
• California Cast Metals Association (CCMA)
• Forging Industry Association
• North American Die Casting Association
• American Extruders Council
• Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute
• Steel Founders Society of America
• Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS)