Casting is a process in which molten metal is poured or injected and allowed to solidify in a suitably shaped mold cavity. During or after cooling, the cast part is removed from the mold and then processed for delivery.

Casting processes and cast-material technologies vary from simple to highly complex. Material and process selection depends on the part's complexity and function, the product's quality specifications, and the projected cost level.

Cast magnesium alloys are being specified at an increasing rate for structural applications. The cause of this dramatic growth is a drive by companies to reduce component mass, and to take advantage of the specific physical and inherent mechanical properties of magnesium alloys for superior product performance.