![Metal castings are made from either ferrous or non-ferrous alloys by melting the metal and pouring it into a mold, until it can be removed when cooled. This is an example of an energy intensive process.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20080921153946im_/http://www1.eere.energy.gov/industry/intensiveprocesses/images/eip_metalcasting.gif)
Melting metals in foundries to make metal castings is an energy intensive, high-temperature process.
The Energy Intensive Processes (EIP) is a crosscutting activity of the Industrial Technologies Program (ITP). EIP activities address specific technology platforms that are expected to generate large energy-saving benefits across a variety of industries.
Energy Intensive Processes' research and development (R&D) falls under four technology platforms, which represent the top energy-consuming industrial activities:
- Industrial reactions and separations
- High-temperature processing
- Waste heat minimization and recovery
- Sustainable manufacturing
Solicitations
ITP conducts a competitive solicitation process that awards cost-shared funding to R&D projects that will contribute to national energy and environmental goals. Collaborative partnerships perform these projects, which must address industry needs, along with both energy and cost savings.