HPG casts aluminium parts to SKA and CERN
HPG
HPG supplies cast aluminium in large sizes with very fine tolerances and high surface finish, including complex and challenging casts with an extraordinary surface finish of RA 3.2 or better. This is enabled by the company’s unusual process of casting in moulds made of plaster. The process not only makes it possible to routinely produce goods with extraordinary surface properties, it also enables the company to add significant functionality. This reduces the total production cost of a product that would otherwise need to be machined and assembled from a number of separate parts.
HPG sees the market potential of Big Science. The first order was for the SKA space research facility under construction in South Africa.
It is sometimes a challenge for HBG to convince clients about the significant potential for reducing costs by casting in plaster. It benefits both client and company when a close dialogue is initiated that helps the client see all opportunities and gives HPG enough information to offer an optimal solution. Another strength is the company's ability to cast and machine parts of large sizes.
HPG also has collaboration around 3D printing, enabling the company to deliver parts with geometries that are even more complex than ones that can be made through casting. 3D-printed parts can be offered in other materials than aluminium, such as titanium, stainless steel and plastics.
HPG sees the market potential of Big Science. The first order was for the SKA space research facility under construction in South Africa. The order, which came through the Onsala Observatory Department at Chalmers University of Technology, was for a large aluminium part with very narrow tolerances and high surface finish. CERN also contacted the company directly with a request for a cast aluminium part with a specific surface finish.
The best business opportunities for HPG can be found in prototyping and in short to medium-size runs, the areas where the company has its biggest strengths. Casting the HPG way offers scope for cost reductions, by adding functionality and reducing the need for machining and finishing of surfaces.
Publishing year 2019
Last edited 2021