Casting and its types

Classification of solidification processes
Casting is a process in which molten metal flows by gravity or other force into a mold where it solidifies in the shape of the mold cavity. The term casting is also applied to the part that is made by this process. It is one of the oldest shaping processes, dating back 6000 years .
The principle of casting seems simple: melt the metal, pour it into a mold, and let it cool and solidify; yet there are many factors and variables that must be considered in order to accomplish a successful casting operation.

Casting includes both the casting of ingots and the casting of shapes. The term ingot is usually associated with the primary metals industries; it describes a large casting that is simple in shape and intended for subsequent reshaping by processes such as rolling or forging.
involves the production of more complex geometries that are much closer to the final desired shape of the part or product. It is with the casting of shapes rather than ingots that we are concerned.
A variety of shape casting methods are available, thus making it one of the most versatile of all manufacturing processes. Among its capabilities and advantages are the following:
? Casting can be used to create complex part geometries, including both external and internal shapes.