Machining vs Cores

Machining and Near-Net Shape

Casting is a near-net shape process, and the casting design engineer almost always has the option of producing a feature on the component with a feature in the mold. This capability can reduce or even eliminate expensive machining steps.

One of the design choices for the snubber arm is how to produce the center bores in the hub and fork.

Two approaches were considered for producing the center bores in the two ends of the snubber arm.

Approach A -- The two center bores are rough drilled and then finish drilled into the snubber arm.
Cores are preformed sand shapes inserted into the mold to produce interior and exterior features in the casting.

Approach B -- The center bores can be produced in the castings using cores and then finish machined to final dimensions after casting.

Choose the approach (A or B ) that is most effective.