Iron castings are produced by a variety of molding methods and are available with a wide range of properties. Cast Iron is a generic term that designates a family of metals. The six types of cast iron are gray iron, ductile iron, compacted graphite iron (CGI), malleable iron, white iron and alloyed iron.

Steel castings have a variety of end-use applications that require a heavy-duty component. These castings are used in parts for railroad cars, pumps and valves, heavy trucks, construction and mining equipment and power generation equipment. A good steel casting application can provide strength while utilizing a flexible geometry inherent with the metalcasting process.

Cast aluminum components are used for many functions, from decorative home-owner components, such as lighting fixtures, to highly engineered, safety-critical components for aerospace and automotive applications.

Cast copper alloys are known for their versatility. They are used in a wide range of applications, such as plumbing fixtures, ship propellers, power plant water impellers and bushing and bearing sleeves, because they are easily cast, have a long history of successful use, are readily available from a multitude of sources, can achieve a range of physical and mechanical properties and are easily machined, brazed, soldered, polished or plated.

The documentary Spotlight On: Metalcasting was produced by AFS and aired nationally on PBS. The five-minute documentary provides an overview of metalcasting and the importance cast components play in our society.