The calculation behind a useful casting quote
Start with measured wax/resin pattern weight or rough dimensions.
Convert to metal weight using density assumptions.
Add sprue/button buffer and shrinkage allowance as explicit assumptions.
Price the result with supplier price per gram, not only spot price.
Add margin or premium separately so the quote remains explainable.
Why most spreadsheet estimates break
They mix object weight, button/sprue waste, supplier spread, and margin in one number.
They lose the price source and timestamp after the quote is sent.
They make it hard to adjust one assumption without recalculating everything.
FAQ
Is this a replacement for a foundry engineering model?
No. It is quote-prep and material planning software, not a safety procedure or certified engineering model.
What is the best input for accuracy?
Measured wax or resin pattern weight is the preferred starting point. Rough dimensions are useful only for quick planning.
Should I use spot price or supplier price?
For a quote, supplier price per gram is usually more practical because it includes the real price you can buy at.
Use the calculator on iPhone
Estimate metal weight, supplier cost, premium, margin and saved quote assumptions from one focused workflow.