331523 - Nonferrous Metal Die-Casting Foundries
Introduction
When it comes to the manufacturing of high-precision metal components, NAICS code 331523 stands out as a key industry classification. Known as Nonferrous Metal Die-Casting Foundries, this NAICS code represents establishments specializing in the die-casting of nonferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, and zinc. These foundries play a crucial role in producing durable, lightweight metal parts commonly used across aerospace, automotive, electronics, and other sectors. Understanding this code is essential for businesses, contractors, and suppliers who want to navigate government contracting, market research, or industry analysis in the manufacturing sector.
What is NAICS Code 331523?
NAICS 331523 encompasses the manufacturing establishments primarily engaged in:
- Die-casting nonferrous metals — including aluminum, copper, zinc, magnesium, and more.
- Producing metal parts by forcing molten metal into molds under high pressure.
- Manufacturing unfinished die-cast metal products that are often used as components in larger assemblies.
This industry is specialized in creating precise, complex shapes that are difficult to achieve with other metal casting methods, combining efficiency with superior material performance.
Sector and Typical Business Activities
NAICS 331523 falls under the broader Manufacturing sector (NAICS 31-33). Businesses classified under this code typically include:
- Aluminum die-casting foundries
- Copper die-casting foundries
- Zinc die-casting foundries
Common activities include:
- Melting and die-casting alloys of nonferrous metals.
- Producing metal parts for industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and industrial machinery.
- Manufacturing finished and unfinished die-castings ready for further machining or assembly.
Size Standards for NAICS 331523 Eligibility
For government contracting and small business eligibility, the size standard for NAICS code 331523 is typically:
- 700 employees or fewer
This threshold helps determine whether a business qualifies as a small business within this classification, affecting eligibility for various government programs, contracts, and incentives.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 331523
Businesses operating within NAICS 331523 include:
- Companies running Aluminum die-casting foundries producing engine blocks or electronic housings.
- Firms specializing in Copper die-casting for electrical components.
- Producers of Zinc die-casting parts for automotive or hardware applications.
These businesses focus on high-quality, durable, and lightweight metal parts making them essential suppliers across multiple manufacturing supply chains.
Detailed Code Descriptions Table
| Code Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Aluminum die-casting foundries | Producing die-cast aluminum metal parts |
| Aluminum die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished aluminum castings |
| Beryllium die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Producing unfinished beryllium castings |
| Brass die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished brass castings |
| Bronze die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Producing unfinished bronze metal castings |
| Copper die-casting foundries | Foundries die-casting copper alloys |
| Copper die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished copper castings |
| Die-castings, aluminum, unfinished, manufacturing | Aluminum die-cast products unrefined |
| Die-castings, nonferrous metals, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished nonferrous metal castings |
| Foundries, die-casting, aluminum | Aluminum die-casting foundries |
| Foundries, die-casting, nonferrous metals | Nonferrous metal die-casting foundries |
| Lead die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Producing unfinished lead castings |
| Magnesium die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished magnesium castings |
| Nickel alloy die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Production of unfinished nickel alloy castings |
| Nickel die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished nickel castings |
| Nonferrous die-casting foundries | Foundries working with nonferrous metals |
| Titanium die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Production of unfinished titanium castings |
| Zinc die-castings, unfinished, manufacturing | Manufacturing unfinished zinc castings |
FAQ: NAICS Code 331523 - Nonferrous Metal Die-Casting Foundries
Q1: What metals are included in NAICS 331523?
NAICS 331523 covers nonferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, zinc, magnesium, beryllium, brass, bronze, nickel, titanium, and lead.
Q2: What is the primary manufacturing process in this industry?
The primary process is die-casting, where molten nonferrous metal is forced into molds under high pressure to form precise metal components.
Q3: What industries commonly use products from these foundries?
Common industries include aerospace, automotive, electronics, appliances, and industrial equipment manufacturing.
Q4: How does the size standard affect eligibility for small business programs?
Businesses with 700 or fewer employees can qualify as small businesses under NAICS 331523, making them eligible for certain government contracts and assistance.
Q5: Are these die-cast parts finished products?
Generally, foundries under NAICS 331523 produce unfinished die-cast metal parts which may require further machining or assembly.
Understanding NAICS code 331523 is critical for companies operating in the nonferrous metal die-casting sector and those seeking partnerships or government contracts within the manufacturing industry. This dynamic and technically specialized field continues to be a backbone for high-performance sectors requiring durable and lightweight metal components.
