FAQs

We produce sand castings (static net-shape) and centrifugal castings (tubes and rings). For commercial applications, our sand castings are produced using a variety of moulding platforms, whereas defence castings are produced using our proprietary, dynamic HPLT method. Our sand cast process is used for non-ferrous alloys, whilst our centrifugal process is used for both ferrous and non-ferrous alloys.

We commonly cast over 200 different alloys grades. Feel free contact us by phone or email.

Maximum size and weight of centrifugal castings is 110″/ 2.8m diameter and 220″ / 5.6m length and 33,000 lbs / 15 tonnes.

Maximum weight of sand castings is 30,000 lbs / 14 tonnes.

Absolutely… we have full vertical integration of manufacturing processes, and our two in-house machine shops can produce tight-toleranced machined parts covering our entire casting range, using an impressive range of multi-axis CNC and manual machine tools.

Choosing the best casting method to ensure an ultra-high-integrity product is one of our specialities. We have developed unique, proprietary casting processes over the past century, often in collaboration with major design authorities, and we are ready to help you. We aim to collaborate with our customers as early as possible in their project on a design for manufacture basis, to guide their design choices and ensure the highest integrity casting.

We typically supply a fully machined casting in 16-18 weeks (with 97% on-time in full reliability). In special cases we can supply in 9-10 weeks.

We always recommend that our customers order machined parts rather than raw castings. Even the highest integrity casting can occasionally reveal a surface imperfection during machining. If we machine the casting, imperfections are captured by our own internal inspection. By supplying finished-machined castings, we can guarantee perfect quality, which is vital for the overall supply chain performance.

Westley Group is made up of four businesses, collaborating as One Westley:

1. Meighs & Westleys – Sand castings.
2. Spunalloys – Centrifugal castings and precision machining/assembly/test of larger parts.
3. Francis Birkett – Precision machining of small-to-medium sized parts.
4. Walter Frank – Specialist fire fighting equipment and end of line valves.

Between them, these businesses provide a vertically integrated supply chain.

Alloy development and selection are two of our specialities. We have been developing new alloy grades since the last century, often in collaboration with major design authorities, and we are ready to advise you. We commonly cast over 200 different alloy grades.

No! We usually radiograph parts within 2-5 days, either in-house or via one of our partners. However, it can add time due to tooling and design for manufacture.

Yes, our foundries are approved by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Lloyds, DNV, and other classification societies.

Yes, our business management system is certified to ISO 9001:2015 for sand casting and AS 9001:2016 for centrifugal casting. These underpin everything we do. Walter Frank’s end of line valves are often FM Approved.

Yes, we can provide MSDSs upon request.

Yes, we offer a one-stop shop. Some customers prefer us to assemble their product, combining our in-house manufactured parts with parts sourced from other suppliers or free-issued by our customer.

Any tooling charge is always transparently quoted prior to receiving a customer order. For rings and tubes, no tooling is required as we maintain a huge range of dies, covering sizes up to 110″ / 2.8m diameter and 220″ / 5.6m length. For net shape static castings, we require a pattern/tool/mould which we can manufacture or which can be free issued to us. For machining, there are occasional charges for fixtures, depending on the specific item under consideration.

Provide as much information as possible. As a minimum: whether your application is commercial or defence, its end use, drawing number(s) or detailed dimensions, alloy grade, quantities, desired lead time or despatch date. Any relevant specifications, including non-destructive testing requirements, approvals, certifications, packaging, and any special requirements. If you’re not sure, please contact us below.

Following Brexit, Westley Group continues to comply with the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation, and also with Section 1502 of the US Dodd-Frank Act.

Yes, we cast various aluminium alloys, although not in large volume.

Provide as much information as possible. As a minimum: whether your application is commercial or defence, its end use, drawing number(s) or detailed dimensions, alloy grade, quantities, desired lead time or despatch date. Any relevant specifications including non-destructive testing requirements, approvals, certifications, packaging, and any special needs you may have.

We are always on the lookout for capable colleagues who share our passion for bespoke manufacturing! Whether you are new to the industry and are interested in our highly successful apprenticeship program, or you are an experienced candidate seeking their next challenge, visit our “Careers” page for current vacancies.

Please contact us by phone or email.