OEM vs ODM in Metal Casting: Why OEM Is the Right Choice for Custom Parts
When sourcing custom metal parts, global buyers often encounter two common terms: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturing). While both models are widely used in manufacturing, they serve different purposes and suit different types of buyers.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between OEM and ODM in the context of metal casting, and explain why OEM is the optimal choice for businesses that need tailor-made, high-precision castings—especially when working with a specialized OEM supplier like EATHU.
What Are OEM and ODM in Metal Casting?
| Model | OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) | ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) |
|---|---|---|
| Design provided by | Buyer | Manufacturer |
| Product uniqueness | Fully custom | Often standardized |
| Intellectual Property (IP) | Belongs to buyer | Belongs to manufacturer (usually) |
| Flexibility | High – customized per drawing | Limited customization |
| Suitable for | Engineering-driven buyers | Retailers or brand importers |
OEM in metal casting means the supplier manufactures products according to the customer’s drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
ODM, on the other hand, involves the manufacturer designing the product and offering it under the buyer’s brand.
Why OEM Is the Right Choice for Custom Metal Components
If you’re sourcing parts like valves, pipe fittings, lifting clutches, architectural embedded parts, or auto castings, chances are you already have:
Detailed engineering drawings
Material specifications
Functional requirements
Quality control expectations
This is where OEM casting services excel.
Key advantages of OEM in metal casting:
Total Control Over Design
You maintain full ownership of the design and technical documentation. Your product remains unique to your business.
Flexibility in Materials and Process
Whether you need stainless steel investment casting, gray iron sand casting, or aluminum die casting, OEM suppliers like EATHU can adjust the process to meet your specs.
Guaranteed IP Protection
With OEM, your proprietary designs are protected. At EATHU, we strictly follow customer confidentiality and NDAs.
Scalable for Mass Production
Once the sample is approved, we proceed to tooling and large-batch production with consistent quality and delivery timelines.
Why EATHU Specializes in OEM Metal Casting Services Only
Unlike ODM factories that push ready-made catalogs, EATHU exists to support industrial buyers with precision custom castings. We partner with clients worldwide who value:
Technical precision
Fast and clear communication
Stable quality control systems (ISO 9001 certified)
Professional export support
Our OEM capabilities include:
Full-process support: quotation → tooling → sampling → production → shipment
Investment casting, sand casting, die casting options
CAD drawing review and manufacturability feedback
Custom surface treatments (machining, polishing, galvanizing, etc.)
Logistics support and export documentation
We don’t offer ODM products. Instead, we empower your design to become reality—with 100% focus on OEM manufacturing.
Typical Industries That Require OEM Metal Casting Services
Our OEM customers come from a variety of industries, including:
Construction and Architecture
Cast-in embedded parts, heavy-duty brackets, wall anchors
Industrial Machinery
Pump housings, bearing supports, gear covers
Automotive
Suspension components, exhaust parts, brake system castings
Oil, Gas & Energy
Valve bodies, pipe connectors, precision couplings
In each case, OEM casting is essential to meet exact technical specifications, safety standards, and durability requirements.
OEM Case Example: Lifting Clutches for Precast Concrete
One of our European clients needed a custom-designed lifting clutch used in spherical head anchors for precast concrete lifting. They provided:
A detailed 3D CAD file
Load-bearing specifications
Surface finish requirements
We:
Provided manufacturability suggestions
Created molds and prototypes within 15 days
Completed tensile testing per EN standards
Delivered the first batch of 2,000 units on time
This project would not be possible under an ODM model. The design was 100% client-owned and application-specific—perfect for OEM.
Choosing the Right Model: OEM vs ODM
Still wondering which model fits your project? Here’s a quick guide:
Choose OEM if:
You already have a design or 3D model
You require custom dimensions or materials
You need confidentiality and IP protection
You’re building a brand or patented product
Avoid ODM if:
You need precise functionality and customization
You want to own your product design
You want to avoid "off-the-shelf" solutions
Work with EATHU – Your Reliable OEM Metal Casting Manufacturer in China
At EATHU, we take pride in being your OEM-only casting partner. From stainless steel precision castings to sand-cast iron parts, we bring your designs to life—efficiently, professionally, and with quality you can trust.
Contact us today to discuss your next casting project or request a quote.