Businesses specialising in the casting of metals produce components by shaping molten metal in a mould. They may work with ferrous metals, such as iron and steel, or non-ferrous metals, including aluminium, bronze, brass and copper alloys. The process and equipment used depend on the material, the component's shape and the required production volume. Common methods include sand casting, investment casting and die casting. A foundry may provide a complete service, from advising on a component's design and making patterns or moulds to melting, pouring and cooling the metal. Finished castings are often cleaned and have excess material removed, a process known as fettling. Further work can include heat treatment, machining, surface finishing and inspection. Customers typically use cast components in machinery, vehicles, construction, engineering and domestic or industrial equipment. Some businesses make one-off or replacement parts, while others produce repeat batches for manufacturers.