Our models are manufactured mainly from plywood or plastic. These are carefully machined to approximate exactly the desired shape and dimensions of the final product. The pattern serves as a positive volume: it is placed in a mold box and then encased in bonded mold sand.
When we cast, the liquid steel flows into the cavities of the sand mold formed by the pattern.
The Pattern shop does not stand alone: it is a crucial link between the design department and production in the foundry. Direct cooperation with our method engineers allows us to optimize patterns according to the chosen casting method (such as connections for supply channels and provisions for cooling).
Allard-Europe is an expert in casting design and casting methodology. We know how to turn the most complex mechanical parts into a perfect casting. We are happy to help you right from the start of the design (co-engineering) to achieve smooth realization.
Allard-Europe makes castings from steel or white cast iron to your specifications. Tell us what mechanical properties, standards or environmental factors you require and we will work with you to find the right type of material.
Allard-Europe is equipped with 4 medium-frequency induction furnaces. This allows us to melt 37 tons at one time, but also gives us the necessary flexibility for customization in function of material selection and molds.
The Fettling Shop is where castings are cleaned, finished and prepared for inspection or further machining after being removed from the mold.
Allard-Europe is well equipped to perform the heat treatments. During heat treatment, each casting is given the right balance between hardness and toughness. Through precise temperature control, we optimize the structure and mechanical properties of the material.
In the Machine Shop, castings are finished into end products with high precision. The mechanical post‑processing (machining) removes material to obtain accurate shapes, tolerances, and surfaces that cannot be achieved through casting alone.
Allard-Europe has large and modern CNC machines and employs qualified welders for cast steel who can, when required, add additional components to a casting.
Thorough risk management and advanced quality controls are an absolute necessity because the casting process is complex and small deviations can have major implications for safety, performance and cost.
