This document provides an overview of the metal casting process. It discusses the history of casting, why casting is used, and the basic casting process steps. It also defines important casting terms like patterns, molds, and gating systems. Patterns are replicas of the final part and come in different materials and types. Molds are made using patterns and contain cavities that the molten metal will fill. The basic casting process involves pattern making, mold making, pouring molten metal, solidification, and cleaning. Different molding sands like green sand and dry sand are also introduced.