The euphoria that arose in the late 70s and early 80s during the search for alternative materials for machine building after an investigation of hydraulically bonded concrete has meanwhile given way to the realization that this new material will remain restricted to such applications where specific properties (such as vibration absorption and resistance to corrosive agents) are prescribed by the designer. Expectations as to a production at substantially lower cost as compared with castings or welded structures have not come true. This realization has at least been confirmed by a study conducted by the VDG team working on machine tools, and until this date this has not been disproved.