Metal casting processes uses the following terminology:
Pattern: An approximate duplicate of the final casting used to form the mold cavity.
Molding material: The material that is packed around the pattern and then the pattern is removed to leave the cavity where the casting material will be poured.
Flask: The rigid wood or metal frame that holds the molding material.
Cope: The top half of the pattern,flask,mold,or core.
Drag: The bottom half of the pattern,flask,mold,or core.
Core: An insert in the mold that produces internal features in the casting,such as holes.
Core print: The region added to the pattern,core,or mold used to locate and support the core.
Mold cavity: The combined open area of the molding material and core,where the metal is poured to produce the casting.
Riser: An extra void in the mold that fills with molten material to compensate for shrinkage during solidification.
Gating system: The network of connected channels that deliver the molten material to the mold cavities.
Pouring cup or pouring basin: The part of the gating system that receives the molten material from the pouring vessel.
Sprue: The pouring cup attaches to the sprue,which is the vertical part of the gating system. The other end of the sprue attaches to the runners.
Runners: The horizontal portion of the gating system that connects the sprues to the gates.
Gates: The controlled entrances from the runners into the mold cavities.
Vents: Additional channels that provide an escape for gases generated during the pour.
Parting line or parting surface: The interface between the cope and drag halves of the mold,flask,or pattern.
Draft: The taper on the casting or pattern that allow it to be withdrawn from the mold
Core box: The mold or die used to produce the cores.
Some specialized processes,such as
die casting,use additional terminology.