MLM-Zach - Dews Foundry

Chemically Bonded Sand Molding: When No-Bake Casting Is the Better Choice

A large metal mold filled with burning orange flames in an industrial foundry, with the text "CHEMICALLY BONDED SAND MOLDING EXPLAINED" overlaid in bold white letters.

Foundry Insights Chemically Bonded Sand Molding: When No-Bake Casting Is the Better Choice Learn how chemically bonded sand molding works, when no-bake molds make sense, and where this process fits into industrial casting decisions. Chemically bonded sand molding, often called no-bake molding, is a sand casting method that uses chemical binders instead of moisture and […]

What are high‑chrome cast iron wear parts used for in mining and aggregate?

Two large, metallic high chrome cast iron wear parts with protruding bolts are placed on a surface outdoors. In the blurred background, part of a construction vehicle and rubble can be seen.

⚙️ Quick Summary High-chrome cast iron wear parts are specialized components made from nickel-chromium white cast irons containing 12-30% chromium, delivering exceptional hardness (450-700 HB) and superior abrasion resistance. These parts are essential in mining and aggregate operations for crushers, screens, impact plates, chute liners, and drilling equipment where traditional materials fail prematurely. The high […]

What is a Bridge Bearing? A Practical Guide for Bridge and Highway Projects

Dark-themed graphic with the title "What is a Bridge Bearing? A Practical Guide" in large text, and a stylized, circular mechanical diagram on the right. Includes C.L. Dews & Sons branding.

Foundry Insights What is a Bridge Bearing? A Practical Guide for Bridge and Highway Projects Learn how bridge bearings support loads, control movement, and help protect bridge and highway structures from stress, wear, and long-term performance issues. Bridge and highway projects depend on many components most drivers never notice. Girders, decks, piers, and abutments usually […]

What is Blanchard Grinding? A Practical Guide to Rotary Surface Grinding

Dark graphic with sunburst pattern, featuring bold white and yellow text: "Blanchard Grinding: Rotary Surface Method." Subtext reads, "What rotary surface grinding is and when it earns its keep." C.L. Dews & Sons branding included.

Foundry Insights What is Blanchard Grinding? A Practical Guide to Rotary Surface Grinding Learn how Blanchard grinding works, where it performs best, and when another grinding or machining method may be the smarter choice. When buyers ask what is Blanchard grinding, they are usually trying to solve a real production problem, not memorize a textbook […]

Can You Weld Galvanized Steel? Safety Tips, Techniques, and Alternatives

A gloved hand holds a welding torch emitting sparks onto a metal sheet; text reads, “Can you weld galvanized steel? Discover safety tips, techniques, and can you weld galvanized steel alternatives.”.

Quick Summary Welding galvanized steel is possible, but it requires special care. The zinc coating used for corrosion resistance can release toxic fumes when heated, so it’s crucial to grind the coating off near the weld area and use proper ventilation and protective equipment. This blog walks through essential safety tips, recommended welding methods like […]

How Much Is a CNC Machine Cost? Price Ranges by Type, Size & Industry

A CNC machine in use with overlaid white text that reads, "How Much Is a CNC Machine?" on a dark background.

Quick Summary CNC machine pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all—costs vary dramatically based on size, complexity, precision, and software capabilities. This guide breaks down different machine types from entry-level desktop models to multi-axis industrial workhorses used in aerospace and automotive. You’ll learn how features like speed, material compatibility, and brand reputation influence pricing, and how operating costs like […]

Steel Fabrication Explained: What a Steel Fabricator Actually Does

Close-up of steel tools, bolts, nuts, and metal strips on the left, with bold text on a dark background reading: "Steel Fabrication Explained: What Does a Steel Fabricator Do?.

Steel fabrication, often shrouded in mystique, plays an indispensable role in our industrial world, yet many outside this heavy-duty realm barely know what a steel fabricator does. With roots reaching back to ancient blacksmiths, steel fabrication has evolved into a sophisticated amalgam of art and engineering, crafting the backbone of modern civilization. Venturing into steel […]

What is the Best Abrasion Resistant Steel for Industrial Wear Parts?

Black promotional banner with white and orange text reading "Abrasion-Resistant Steel for Wear Parts" and "Picking the right AR grade for real-world wear parts." C.L. Dews & Sons branding and hexagonal graphic elements are shown.

Foundry Insights What is the Best Abrasion Resistant Steel for Industrial Wear Parts? Choose the right abrasion resistant steel by comparing hardness, toughness, impact resistance, and cost, so your wear parts last longer without overpaying for the wrong grade. When liners, buckets, crusher parts, truck beds, or handling surfaces wear out too quickly, the issue […]

Foundry and Forging: Key Differences for Industrial Metal Parts

Foundry Insights Foundry and Forging: Key Differences for Industrial Metal Parts Choosing between foundry work and forging affects part strength, shape, wear life, cost, lead time, and final performance. This guide explains how both processes work and when each one makes sense for industrial metal parts. Foundry work creates parts by melting metal and pouring […]

Best CNC Plasma Cutter for Metal Fabrication and Production Cutting

Foundry Insights Best CNC Plasma Cutter for Metal Fabrication and Production Cutting Compare CNC plasma cutter options by material thickness, production volume, cut quality, and shop workflow so you can choose the right setup for fabrication, repair, and industrial metal cutting. In This Guide Understanding CNC Plasma Cutting How to Choose the Best CNC Plasma […]