When you request a quote for iron castings, one of the first questions you’ll ask is:
“How long will it take?” Lead times are often the difference between a project running on schedule or falling behind. In industrial applications – where components are critical to infrastructure, plant machinery, or civil engineering – delays aren’t just inconvenient, they’re costly.
At Fowler & Holden, we pride ourselves on delivering castings on time, every time, without compromising on quality or certification. In this blog, we break down what affects iron casting lead times in the UK, what to expect at each stage, and how to speed things up when deadlines are tight.
What Affects Foundry Lead Times?
Iron casting lead time in the UK typically ranges from 2 to 8 weeks depending on project scope. But no two jobs are the same – lead times are shaped by multiple variables:
1. Design Complexity
Simple brackets or counterweights can be cast quickly, while complex housings or structural components may require:
- Core boxes.
- Precision tolerances.
- Machining allowances.
- Material testing.
The more intricate the part, the more time is required at every stage.
2. Pattern Availability
If your component already has a pattern stored at the foundry, lead times drop significantly. But if new tooling is required – especially for bespoke parts – allow 1-2 weeks for design, 3D CAD approval, and production.
Fowler & Holden stores repeat-use patterns for our clients to streamline future orders.
3. Volume & Batch Size
A one-off or short-run casting may be prioritised and completed quickly. However, larger batches (50, 100+) require additional moulds, materials, and machining coordination.
Planning your casting schedule in advance helps us slot your project into production efficiently.
3. Material Choice
We stock a wide range of iron alloys, including SG iron and grey iron to EN1561/EN1563. If a special grade or nickel-based alloy is needed, it may add 1-2 weeks depending on availability.
Our UK-based sourcing and strong supplier network mean delays are rare – but project-specific materials should be confirmed early.
4. In-House or Subcontract Machining
At Fowler & Holden, we offer full in-house machining, so lead times are much faster than foundries who subcontract this stage.
We machine:
- Bores, faces, and tapped holes.
- Tight tolerance fits.
- Flatness and concentricity to drawing.
By integrating machining into the foundry workflow, we cut out the wait.
Tooling Setup
If a new pattern is required, setup typically involves:
- Engineering review of your drawing or sample.
- CAD or reverse engineering as needed.
- CNC pattern manufacture (wood, resin, or metal).
- Test mould and trial casting.
Total time: typically 10-15 working days.
Rush services may reduce this if needed.
How to Speed Up Delivery
Some projects simply can’t wait. That’s why we offer rapid cast delivery on selected jobs. Here’s how you can help speed up your order:
Be Clear with Your RFQ
Use our downloadable checklist to include:
- Full dimensional drawing (2D/3D).
- Material and finish spec.
- Quantities and usage notes.
- Tolerances and machining info.
- Delivery location and deadline.
The more we know upfront, the faster we can quote and proceed.
Use Existing Patterns
If you’ve ordered from us before, or have an existing sample, we can re-use or reverse engineer quickly – eliminating weeks from the schedule.
Choose As-Cast Where Possible
Need a part urgently?
If it doesn’t require machining, opting for as-cast may shave days off lead time.
Fowler & Holden Typical Lead Times
| Process Stage | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Quotation | 24-48 hours |
| Pattern Making | 1-2 weeks (if required) |
| Casting | 1-2 weeks |
| Machining | 1-2 weeks (in-house) |
| Inspection & Despatch | 1-3 days |
Total: 3-6 weeks depending on scope.
Fast-track options available for urgent projects.
Fowler & Holden’s Commitment to On-Time Delivery
As a trusted UK iron casting manufacturer, we know how vital it is to stay on schedule. That’s why we’ve built our foundry to be:
- Fully in-house from casting to machining.
- Flexible on batch sizes and schedules.
- Responsive with fast quoting and communication.
- Transparent with regular updates and despatch forecasting.
We’ll always give you a realistic delivery date – and keep to it.
FAQs
What affects the lead time of a casting?
Pattern setup, design complexity, material availability, batch size, and machining requirements all contribute.
How long does tooling setup take?
Typically 1-2 weeks, including design sign-off and CNC pattern production.
Can I get castings on a fast-track basis?
Yes. We offer rapid delivery on urgent short-run or repeat jobs. Just let us know your deadline.
What can delay a casting order?
Incomplete RFQs, unavailable materials, or design revisions can all add time. We work with you to avoid delays.
Do you offer delivery scheduling?
Yes – we can align production to your installation timeline or call-off requirements.
Talk to a Foundry That Delivers On Time, Every Time
With Fowler & Holden, you don’t have to choose between speed and quality. We’ve refined our processes to give you both.
Contact us
Call: +44 (0)1472 355 316
Email: enquiries@fowlerandholden.co.uk
