METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

MODULE-1
INTRODUCTION & BASIC MATERIALS USED IN FOUNDRY

Introduction

Manufacturing is a process of converting raw materials into finished product. It

includes design and manufacturing of goods using various production methods and
techniques. The above figure illustrates the manufacturing process. Eve p oduct requires
material from which the product is made and also requires a method to conve t aw material
into desired product. We need machines to convert the materials to get desi e shape and size.
To convert the raw material into the product using m chine nd methods we require men to
operate the machines and to apply the methods. Money is the essential input required for
purchasing raw materials, machines and m n power.

Classification of manufacturing process:

a. Casting
b. Forming
c. Machining
d. Joining

a. Casting:
In casting process, the molten metal is poured into a mould cavity and is allowed to
solidify after solidification, the casting is removed from the mould and cleaned, finally
machined to the required shape and size and inspected before use. They are further
classified into 2 types
1. Expandable mould
2. Permanent mould

1. Expandable mould
Here, the mould is prepared from sand, plaster or any other similar material which can break
easily to remove the solidified part, in other words a new mould has to be prepared for each
new casting. Eg: Green sand, dry sand, plaster, etc.
2. Permanent mould
Here, the mould is fabricated out of steel and can be used repeatedly to produce many
castings. Eg: Gravity die casting, continuous casting, pressure die casting, centrifugal
casting.

b. Forming
In forming process, the desired shape and size are obtained through the plastic
deformation of material. The type of loading may be tensile, compressive, shearing or
combination of these loads, unlike machining technique. In this process no material is
removed and wasted.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

1. Hot working
In this process deformation of metal takes place above its re-crystallization temperature.
Eg: Forging, rolling, extrusion, etc.

2. Cold working
In this process deformation of metal takes place below its re-crystallization temperature.
Eg: Bending, wire drawing, etc.

c. Machining process
The process of removing the unwanted material from a given wo k piece to give it to a
required shape and size is known as machining. The unw nted m teri l is removed in the
form of chips from the blank material by a harder tool, so s to obt in fin l desired shape.

1. Traditional or conventional machine

In this process a cutting tool is used to remove excess mate ial f om the work piece. The
tool is rigidly mounted on the machine. Eg: Turning, milling, d illing, grinding, etc.

2. Non-Traditional or non-convent onal machine

In this process, a layer of electron beam, chem cal erosion, electric discharge and electro
chemical energy is used instead of trad t onal cutting tool.

d. Joining
In this process, two or more pieces are joined together to produce the required shape
and size of the product. The joint can be either permanent or temporary.

1. Permanent joint
In this joining, it can be done by pouring metals together i.e. welding, gas welding, etc.

2. Temporary joint
In this, it can be done by nuts, bolts, screws, adhesive (gum) bonding, soldering, brazing,
etc.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A
Schematic representation of the classification of manufacturing process.

Expandable mould a. Sand casting (green sand, dry sand)

b. Shell casting
a) CASTING c. Foam casting
d. Investment casting
Permanent mould a. Gravity die casting
b. Pressure Die casting
c. Centrifugal casting
Hot working a. Forging

b. Rolling
b) FORMING c. Extrusion
Cold working a. Wi e d wing
b. Bending
c. Swaging
d. Roll fo ming
Convent onal a. Turning

c) MACHNNG Mach n ng . Milling

c. Grinding
d. Taping
e. Drilling
Non-Conventional a. Laser beam
Machining b. Electro polishing
c. Ultrasonic machining
d. Water jet machining
e. Electro discharge
f. Electro chemical
Permanent a. Welding

Joining b. Gas welding

d) JOINING c. Friction
Temporary a. Soldering
Joining b. Brazing
c. Adhesive bonding
Selection of a process for production
Selection of a particular process for manufacturing to produce a given component depends
on several factors. Some of the important factors to be considered are:
1. Shape to be produced
2. Quantity to be produced
3. Type of material
4. Surface finish and dimensional tolerance
5. Technical viability of the process
6. Economic consideration
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1. Shape to be produced

The shape of the component place a very important role in selection of the process if the
shape is simple it can be machined from raw material or it can be forged or extruded
however, when the shape is highly complex and intricate, casting is best suited.

2. Quantity to be produced
The quantity required is also an important factor for small quantities. Casting may not be
required or economical, while for large quantities it is best suited.

3. Type of material
The type of material and its properties such as ductile, h rdness, toughness, brittleness, are
the contributing factor. Very hard materials cannot be m chined e sily. Brittle materials
cannot be mechanically worked.

4. Surface finish and dimensional tolerance

The surface finish and dimensional tolerance limits the selection of process considerably.
Eg: Commercial sand casting processes cannot e used for high degree of surface finish and
tolerance are required, if they are used. Mach n ng may ecome mandatory otherwise one has
to use die casting or investment cast ng to overcome this problem. Similarly hot working
may not give good surface f n sh and d mensional tolerance. It should be definitely be
followed by cold working finishing operation.

5. Quality and property requirement

A defect free product with a specific property serves its purpose for long life. Properties of
cast materials are generally used when compare to that of mechanically worked materials,
also castings gives a lot of defects, hence a process that gives better property and quantity
should be selected.

6. Technical viability of the process

he process selected must be technically viable i.e. we should be in a position to
manufacture the components using this process without much difficulty.

7. Economic consideration
Customers often demands for product with more features and performance at reduced price,
hence a low cast production process should be selected, but at the same time see that no
compromise is made in terms of quality.

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INTRODUCTION TO CASTING

In this process, components are produced by pouring molten metal into a contoured cavity
followed by cooling to a solid mass.
1. The cold solid mass represents the configuration of the cavity and is the required shape
of the component.
2. The components thus produced are called as casting.
3. The cavity compound to shape of the component is called mould.
4. The mould can be made of refractory material or metal.
5. The mould made out of refractory material is called sand moulds and that of made out
of metal is called metal moulds or dies.
6. Cooling of liquid metal to solid metal is termed as ph se tr nsform tion. The place
where this activity is carried out is referred to as foundry.
7. In short, casting process involves shaping of the met l by using mould cavity and hot
metal.
8. In this process, the final shape is realized without using any other mechanism unlike in
other processes, except the conversion of liquid metal to solid metal.

Steps involved in making a cast ng

1. Pattern
2. Mould preparation
3. Core making
4. Melting and pouring
5. Cleaning and Inspection

1. Pattern
A pattern is a replica of the object is to be cast. It is used to prepare a cavity into which the
molten metal is poured. A skilled pattern maker prepares the pattern using wood, metal,
plastic or any other material. Many factors like durability, allowance for shrinkage and
machining, etc., are considered when making a pattern.

2. Mould preparation
It involves for making a cavity by packing sand around a pattern enclosed in a supporting
metallic frame. When the pattern is removed from the mould an exact shaped cavity remains
into which the molten metal is poured. Gating and risering are provided at suitable locations
in the mould.

3. Core making
In some cases a hole or a cavity is required in the casting. This is obtained by placing a core
in the mould cavity. The shape of the core corresponds to the shape of the hole required.
The mould is cleaned & finished before metal pouring.

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4. Melting and pouring

Metals or alloys of the required composition are melted in a furnace and poured in to the
mould cavity. Many factors like temperature of molten metal, pouring time, turbulence, etc
should be considered while making & pouring.

5. Cleaning and Inspection

After the molten metal is solidified and cooled, the rough casting is emoved from the mould,
cleaned and dressed (removing cores, adhered sand pa ticles, gating, risering system, fins,
blisters, etc from the casting surface) and then sent for inspection to check for dimensions or
defects like blow holes, crakes, etc.

Procedure for making a casting

a. Mould box
It is usually a metallic frame used for making for holding a sand mould. The mould box has
two parts. The upper part is called “Cope” and the lower part is called “Drag”.
b. Parting line
It is the zone of separation between a cope & drag position of the mould in sand casting.
c. Sprue/Runner
It is a vertical passage through wh ch the molten metal will enter the gate.
d. Pouring basin
The enlarge position of the sprue with its top into which the molten metal is poured.
e. Gate
It is a short passage way which carries the molten metal from the runner sprue in to the
mould cavity.
f. Riser
A riser or a feed head is a vertical passage that stores the molten metal ands supplies the
same to the casting as it solidifies.
g. Mould cavity
he space in a mould that is filled with molten metal to form the casting upon solidification.
h. Core
A core is performed by using a mass of sand placed in the mould cavity to form hollow
cavity in the castings.
i. Core print
It is a projection attached to the pattern to help for support and correct location of core in
the mould cavity.

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FLOW CHART INDICATING THE STEPS IN A CASTING

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Varieties of Components produced by casting process

st
Casting is the 1 step and the primary process for shaping any material. All
materials have to be cast before it is put in use.
The ingots produced by casting process are used as raw material for secondary processes
like machining, forging, rolling, etc.
To list the components produced by casting is an endless process, a few major
components produce by casting are given below:

a. Automotive sector: A few parts like brake drum, cylinder, cylinder linings, pistons,
engine blocks, universal joints, rocker arms, brackets, etc.
b. Aircraft: Turbine blades, casting, etc.
c. Marine: Propeller blades
d. Machining: Cutting tools, machine beds, wheels and pulleys, blocks, t ble for supports,
etc.
e. Agriculture & rail road equipments: Pumps and comp esso , frames, valves, pipes
and fittings for construction.
f. Camera frame, parts in washing machine, refrigerator & air-conditioners
g. Steel utensil & a wide variety of products.
Advantages and limitations of cast ng process

Following are a few advantages and l m tat ons of casting process.

Advantages:
 
Casting is the basic and versatile (flexible) manufacturing process.
 
Difficult shapes can be easily cast.
 
Large, hollow & intricate shapes can be easily cast.

Casting provides freedom of design with respect to shape, size and quality of the

product.
 
Some metals that cannot be machined can be produced by casting to the required shape.
 
Heavy objects can be produced only by casting process.
 
Controlled mechanical & metallurgical properties can be obtained.
 
Casting process is most suitable for mass production.
 
A large variety of alloying composition & properties can be obtained.
 
Directional properties can be obtained in certain cases by controlled cooling.

Parts with close dimensional tolerance & ready to use can be produced by special
casting methods.
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Disadvantages OR Limitations

Casting process is an elaborate process and involves operations.

It requires large infrastructure like casting section, melting, pattern, core section,
cleaning, finishing, and inspection.

Very high investment is required.

Casting process is not economical & viable for small scale operations.

The man power requirement is large.

High care is required in handling chemicals and molten metal.

The actual casting operation cannot be automated.

Generally most operations may be casting or one of type i.e. mould has to be p epared for
each casting.

Great care is required in controlling the cooling rate to obt in defect free casting.

Very difficult to cast thin sections.

PATTERNS:

Definition: Pattern is a tool used to produce the mould cavity. It is a mould making tool.
The shape of the pattern is the same as that of the component or casting, but the size will be
slightly larger than the casting. Pattern s also referred to as the positive replica of the
casting. A number or castings can be made us ng a single pattern.

Functions of a pattern: The basic functions of a pattern are;

To produce the mould cavity faithfully.
To establish parting line.
To promote production of quality casting
To incorporate gating system and riser.
To bring economy to the process.
To have provision for core prints.

Materials used for Patterns: Before selecting a particular material, a few factors are to be
considered, they are:
a) Number of castings to be produced.
b) Degree of accuracy and surface finish of casting required.
c) Shape and size of the casting.
d) Re-usability of pattern, so that they will provide a repeatable dimensionally
acceptable.
e) Type of mould material used- clay or resin.
f) Type of moulding selected – green sand moulding, investment process etc.

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The following materials are used for making patterns:-

a) Wood – Well seasoned teak wood is used for the pattern. Wood is soft, light and easy to
work and takes the shape easily. Used for producing smaller number of castings. Large
and small patterns can be made. It wears out faster, cannot withstand rough handling and
can absorb moisture.
b) Metal – Is stronger than wood, but heavier than wood. Can maintain dimensions
accurately for a very long time. Does not absorb moisture. Used to produce large
number of castings. Has longer life. It is difficult to repair. Bigger sized patterns cannot
be made using this.
c) Wax – Is a low melting point material. Imparts good surface to the mould. Can be
recovered and used again and again. Used in investment casting moulding. A
combination of paraffin, wax, bees wax, etc. is used for m king the p ttern.
d) Plastics – Plastic material is a compromise between wood nd met l. Thermosetting
resins like phenolic resin, epoxy resin, foam plastic etc. e used s m terials for making
pattern. It is strong and light in weight. Does not abso b moisture during its use and
storage. Gives good surface finish to castings. Thin sections are difficult to cast using
plastics. Initially plastic patterns have to e cast and finished to desired shape and size.
This leads to the increase in cost of the final cast product.
e) Plaster – Gypsum or plaster of Par s s another pattern material capable of producing
intricate castings to close dimens onal tolerances. They are strong, light in weight, easily
shaped, gives good surface f n sh. However, they used for small castings only. Plaster
readily mixes with water and when allowed sets and becomes hard. Normally plaster is
used for producing master dies and moulds.

Various Pattern allowances and their importance:

Pattern has the same shape as that of the casting but the dimensions will be generally more
than that of the casting. This extra dimension from the required value, given on the pattern is
called as “allowances”. These allowances need to be given on the pattern due to
metallurgical and mechanical reasons. The different types of allowances are;
a) Shrinkage allowance
b) Draft allowance
c) Machining allowance
d) Scale & Grinding allowance
e) Distortion allowance

a) Shrinkage allowance: All metals and alloys undergo decrease in volume when cooled
from liquid temperature to room temperature. This change in volume of metal or alloy is
called as “shrinkage”. Fig. 1 shows the variation of shrinkage as a function of
temperature. As the molten metal is cooled from its superheat temperature, the volume
starts decreasing continuously till it reaches room temperature. This is a natural
phenomenon. Shrinkage of metal or alloy takes place in three stages viz. liquid to liquid,
liquid to solid and solid to solid. The first two are taken care of by providing risers in the
castings. The last one is taken care of by providing shrinkage allowance on the pattern.

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This is also referred to as pattern shrinkage allowance. The value of this depends on the
nature of the metal or alloy. This allowance when given on to the pattern, will increase its size.
Pattern maker‟s scale is available to facilitate easy and direct measurement. Pattern shrinkage
for some metals is:

Ex. Cast steel 3-5 mm per 100mm length

Aluminium 3-4 mm per 100mm length
Cast iron 2-3 mm per 100mm length

b) Draft allowance: It is the allowance g ven to the vertical surface of the pattern to
facilitate easy removal of the pattern from the mould cavity, without causing any
damage to the mould. This allowance depends on the type of moulding. Fig. 2 and 2a, 2b
& 2c shows the method of draft allowance given in patterns. Damage is caused to the
vertical pattern portions of the mold, when there is no draft. Hence by giving taper or
draft on the vertical portions of the pattern there is no damage caused to the mould when
the pattern is lifted upwards.

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c) Machining allowance: Most of the castings will have more than one surface that needs
machining. The dimensions get reduced after machining. Hence, the size of the pattern
is made larger than required. During machining, this extra material on the casting is
removed. This allowance depends on the nature of the metal and the dimensions of the
castings. Typical machining allowances are:

Ex. Cast Iron 1-10 mm

Cast steel 3-12 mm
Aluminium 1.5-4.5 mm
Alloys 1.5-4.5 mm
Brass, Bronze, etc 1.5-5 mm

d) Scale & Grinding allowance: Most of the castings unde go he t tre tment and due to
higher temperatures scales are formed on the su f ce. This needs to be removed by
grinding operation. In addition, sometimes su face oughness or imperfection needs to be
removed by grinding operation. Hence, the size of the casting is made slightly bigger
than the required to accommodate this. The magnitude of this extra allowance is
0.2 -3 mm.

e) Distortion allowance: Casting hav ng shapes such as C, U and large plate, loose their
shapes during solidification. The loss of shape is referred to as distortion. This is due to
the shrinkage stresses present during solidification. To take care of this, the pattern is
given an allowance in the direction opposite to the expected distortion. This is referred to
as distortion allowance. More or experience is essential is addition to the design knowledge in
arriving to this allowance. Fig. shows the distortion allowance.

Classification of patterns: Patterns are of various types. But the selection of a particular type
of pattern depends upon the type of moulding process employed, shape and size of the casting
required. Some of the commonly sued patterns are discussed.

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a) Single piece pattern: Single piece pattern also called, solid pattern the simplest type
made in one piece without any joints or loose pieces. Used for simple shape and large
size castings. It can be made easily. Fig. Shows the single piece pattern.

b) Split pattern: Consists of pattern in two halves joined by a pin. It is used to prepare
moulds using hand. It is used popularly in hand moulding. The split can be at two or
more planes. The split in the pattern facilitates e sy moulding. Fig. shows the split
pattern.

c) Loose piece pattern : Pattern consists of a main body to which small projection pieces
are attached. These pieces can be removed from the mould after removing the main
body. This type of pattern is used to get undercut portions in the castings. Fig. shows the
loose piece pattern.

d) Cope & Drag pattern: It is basically a two part pattern (split type). Each half is fixed to
a metal plate separately with gates, runners and risers. These two plates with patterns are
used to make moulds in a moulding machine, separately to get bottom and top mould
cavities. The bottom portion is called as the drag portion and the top portion is called as
the cope portion. Hence the names cope and drag pattern. The two moulds are prepared
separately using separate machines and assembled. This type of pattern is used to
produce large number of castings. Fig. Shows the cope & drag pattern.

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e) Gated pattern: This consists of a number of patterns attached with runner, ingate, sprue
and risers. A cope & drag pattern may be used for this purpose. A machine is used for
making the moulds. More number of castings can be produced per mould. Size of the
casting is small. Fig shows the gated pattern.

f) Match plate pattern: This consists of two parts of the p ttern mounted on either
surfaces of a metal plate. It is basically a split p tte n. The two p rts are perfectly aligned.
It is used in a moulding machine. Both cope and d ag boxes are made in the same
machine one after the other. When the two boxes a e closed, the desired mould is
obtained. Fig. shows the match plate pattern.

g) Follow board pattern : When the shape of the pattern is such that it cannot be held
stable in its position, a wooden board conforming to the contour of the pattern is used to
rest the same in correct position and moulding is carried out. Such a pattern which needs
a follow board is referred to as follow board pattern. Follow board holds the pattern till
the moulding is over. Even for moulding thin sections follow board is used. Fig. shows
the follow board pattern.

h) Skeleton pattern: It consists of a number of wooden pieces assembled together to form

the desired shape. The assembly resembles a skeleton. The skeleton portion is then covered
with thin boards. This type of arrangement is used for heavy and big castings and the numbers

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

required is only a few. Material saving for the pattern is achieved and the cost of pattern is
reduced. Used for simple shapes. Ex. Water pipe bends, frames, calve bodies can be cast. Fig.
shows the Skeleton pattern.

i) Sweep pattern: Makes use of a thin board of wood conforming to the outer contour of
the casting. It is used when the casting has a surface of evolution contour such as cylindrical,
bell shape, etc. Can be used for small or big castings and the number of castings is not a
problem. Saves pattern material. It is easy to handle and sto e. It can be used for making
cores. Fig. shows the sweep pattern.

BIS color coding of Patterns: For easy recognition of different portions of the pattern,
standard colour codes have been recommended for the finished wooden pattern. The
standard colour code adopted by the American Foundry men
s Society (AFS) is being used
all over the world. Each colour conveys how the castings will be.

Sl. Colour Casting position

No.
1 Black Casting surface to be left unfinished
2 Red Surface of casting to be machined
3 Red stripes on yellow Loose pieces & seats
background
4 Yellow Core prints and seats for loose core prints
5 Diagonal black stripes on a Stop offs (portions of a pattern that form a cavity which are
yellow base filled with sand before pouring). They are reinforcements to
prevent delicate portions of the pattern.
Due to extensive use of metal and plastic patterns, the colour code is used less now a days.

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BINDER: The sand used for preparing moulds is a mixture of silica sand ( of all the various
sand like zircon, olivine, magnesite etc., silica sand is the widely used), binder and
additives.
Moulding sand = Silica sand + Binder + Additives

A hard mould is the primary requirement is making any castings, and binders serve the
purpose. A binder is a material used to produce cohesion or bind the sand particles (silica
sand) together thereby imparting strength to the sand. Clay binde s (Bentonites) are the most
widely used for bonding moulding sands. But, clay activates or tends to bind sand particles
only in the presence of water (moisture). The amount of water added to clay should be based
on experimental trials because, if too little w ter is dded, the sand will lack strength as the
bond between the sand is low. On the other h nd, too much water causes sand to reach semi
liquid state thereby making it unsuit ble for moulding. In other words, for a given
percentage of clay, there is an optimum pe cent ge of w ter th t gives favorable properties to
the moulding sand. For good moulding sand, clay may vary in the range 6-12% and
moisture from 3-5%.

Types of binders used in mould ng sand: B nders are classified into two types:
a) Organic binders and
b) Inorganic binders.

Organic group of binders include:

Dextrin – made from starch
Molasses – a byproduct of sugar industry
Cereal binders – gelatinized starch and gelatinized flour
Linseed oil – a vegetable oil
Resins – urea formaldehyde, phenol formaldehyde etc.
Inorganic group of binders include:
Clay binders – bentonite, fire clay, etc
Portland cement
Sodium silicate etc.

ADDITIVES:

Additives are generally added to develop certain new properties, or to enhance the existing
properties of the moulding sand. They do not form a compulsory constituent to the
moulding sand. However, its addition improves the quality of the moulding sand and hence
the casting obtained.

Note: Additives do not impart any binding qualities.

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A few commonly used additives used and their properties are mentioned below:
(a) Sea Coal
It is a finely powdered bituminous coal.
Its addition ranges from 2-8% by weight of sand.
Enhances peeling property of castings.
Improves surface finish of castings
Prevents sand burn out.

(b) Silica Flour

It is pulverized silica added in ranges of 5-10% based on sand weight.
Resists metal penetration in the mould walls.
Improves surface finish.

(c) Wood Flour (Cellulose material)

It is a pulverized soft wood (fibrous mate ial)

Added in ranges of 1-2% y weight of sand.
Controls sand expans on created y temper water.
Absorbs excess water and mproves flowa ility of sand during moulding
process.
Improves collapsibility of moulds/cores.

(d) Iron Oxide

Develops hot strength to moulding sand.
Aid in the thermal transfer of heat from the mould-metal interface and provides
stability to the moulds dimensional properties

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SAND MOULDING
Sand Moulding: A mould is a cavity created using metal or refractory sand. The shape of
the cavity corresponds to the shape of casting except the dimensions. A mould is referred to
as the negative replica of the casting. Mould made of metal is called as metal or metallic
moulds and the ones made by using sand is called sand moulds.

Sand moulds or non metallic moulds:

Sand moulds are made using a mixture of refractory sand along with a binde , additive
and water.
This mixture is referred to as moulding sand.
A mould cavity is prepared using this moulding sand.
They are also referred to as non-metallic moulds or refr ctory moulds.

Moulding sands may be:

Natural sand:
Occur readily in nature and contains all the ingredients in the right proportion.
The sand can be directly used to prepare the mould.
Synthetic sand:
Are prepared by making different ngred ents (sand, inder, water, etc.) in the correct
proportion and then used for prepar ng the moulds.

Properties of moulding sand: An important property of a moulding sand is that, it should

produce a sound casting, i.e. a good casting.
To achieve this, the moulding sand should posses the following desired properties:

1. Flowability:

It is the ability of the sand to flow easily and cover all the contours on the pattern,
thus take the desired shape.

he sand with good flowability gets compacted to a uniform density.

Energy during ramming gets easily transmitted through the sand if the flowability is
good.

Clay and water additions influence flowability.
Good moulding sand should have good flowability property.

2. Green Strength:

It is the strength of the sand when in moist condition or green condition (after
compaction).

A mould with adequate green strength will retain its shape, does not distort and will not
collapse while handling it.

A mould with adequate green strength resists metallostatic pressure and sand erosion
while molten metal is flowing in the mould.
Good moulding sand should have good green strength property.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

3. Dry strength:

It is the strength of the sand when there is no moisture in the sand i.e. in the dry
condition.

Hence, a good moulding should be able to develop good dry strength.
o

By heating the mould to approximately 200 C, all the moisture in the sand can be
removed, the strength of such dried sand represents dry strength.

Dry sand enhances strength of the mould.

Resistance to erosion is improved considerably.

Shape of the mould is retained easily in the dry condition.

4. Hot Strength:
o

It is the strength of the sand mould at high temper ture bove 100 C i.e. if the hot
o
strength of sand is good at 200 C, it means that the s nd h s the necessary strength
o
when sand is heated and held at 200 C.

When molten metal is poured into the cavity, the mould gets heated up.

If the sand does not have sufficient strength at this tempe ature it will induce casting
defects.
Hence, sand should have adequate strength at elevated temperature.

5. Permeability:

It is the ability of the sand/mould to allow easy escape of gases/vapour through it.
 When molten metal comes in contact with the mould and core surface, moisture,
binders and additives present in them produce gases and vapour.

These tend to go through vents and also pass through the mould surface.

The sand surface should allow the gases/vapour to escape.

If these are entrapped in the casting, defects will appear in the casting as pores.
Hence, good moulding sand should have good permeability.

6. Collapsibility:

It is the ability of the moulding sand to collapse after the casting solidifies. It should
break down into pieces at the knock out and cleaning stages, easily.

Easier the mould breaks, higher is the collapsibility property of the sand.

If the mould or core sand does not collapse easily, it may obstruct/restrict the
contraction of the solidifying casting and result in cracks/tear in the casting.
Hence, the collapsibility of the sand should be good.

7. Bench line:

It is the ability of the moulding sand to retain its properties during its storage.

The sand should posses fairly good bench life.
A good moulding sand should have good bench life.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

8. Coefficient of expansion:

Moulding sand should have very low expansion characteristics otherwise sand
expansion will occur.

Lower the value of expansion, lesser is the problem of expansion defects in the
mold. Lesser is the cracking tendency of the mold.

9. Adhesiveness:

It is the property of the moulding sand owing to which the su faces of the mould are
held together.

It is because of this property that the sand sticks to the walls of the boxes.
A good moulding sand should have good adhesiveness.

10. Durability:

It is the ability of the sand to withstand repeated cycles of he ting nd cooling and
still retain its properties.

The sand should be reusable i.e. should be able to eclaim the sand.

Requirements of base sand: For produc ng good casting the sand has to fulfill the
following:-

Base Sand:
 
Should be sub angular (grain size)
 
Should be good grain distribution
 
Should have high refractoriness
 
Should have low impurities
 
Should have low expansion characteristics
 
Should be thermally stable.


BASE SAND:
It is a mass of refractory grains. Grains are formed due to the withering action of rocks. It is
available in plenty in nature along se beaches, deserts, etc. Bas sand refers to sand grains
without any other ingredients. They are normally oxides of elements.

Types of base sand:

1) Silica Sand
2) Olivine Sand
3) Chromite Sand
4) Zircone Sand

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

1. Silica Sand: Silica sand is essentially silicon dioxide (SiO 2) found in nature on the
bottom and banks of the rivers, lake and seashore. Silica deposits tend to have varying
degree of organic and mineral contaminants like limestone, magnesia, soda and potash
that must be removed prior to its use, otherwise which affects castings in numerous
ways.
Silica sand is available in plenty, less expensive and possess favorable properties.
But its high thermal expansion leads to certain casting defects; the reason for which not
being used in steel foundries. However, silica sand when mixed with certain additives
like wood flour, cereals, (corn flour) saw dust, etc., defects can be eliminated. These
additives burn by the heat of the molten metal thereby c eating voids that can be
accommodated the sand expansion.

2. Olivine sand: Olivine sand is typically used in non-ferrous foundries. With its thermal
expansion about half of that of silica sand makes it suit ble for production of steel
castings also. But the high cost restricts its wide use.

3. Chromite sand: This is African sand with cost being much higher compared to other
sands. Due to its superior thermal characteristics, it is generally used in steel foundries
for both mould and core mak ng.

4. Zircon sand: Zircon or zircon um s l cate possesses most stable thermal properties of all
the above discussed sand. The cho ce for this type of sand arises when very high
temperatures are encountered and refractoriness becomes a consideration. But the major
disadvantage is that, zircon has trace elements of uranium & thorium which is hazardous
in nature, thereby restricting its use in foundries.

TYPES OF SAND MOULDS: Moulds prepared with sand are called “sand moulds” or
“temporary moulds”, (when moulds are with metal, it is called metallic moulds or
permanent moulds) as they are broken for removing the casting. The different types of sand
moulds are:-
 
Green sand mould
 
Dry sand mould
 
No bake sand mould
Green Sand mould: The moulding sand is in the moist state at the time of metal pouring.
The main ingredients of green sand are silica sand, clay and moisture (water). Additives
may be added in small quantity to obtain the desired properties of mould/casting. Nearly
60% of the total castings are prepared from green sand moulds.

Advantages:
Prepared for simple, small and medium castings
Suitable for mass production
Least expensive
Sand can be reused many times after reconditioning with clay & moisture.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Disadvantages:
 
Moulds/cores prepared by this process lack in permeability, strength and stability.
 
They give rise to many defects like porosity, blow holes, etc.
 
Moulds/cores cannot be stored for long time.
 
Not suitable for large castings.
 
Difficult to cast thin and intricate shapes.
Dry sand mould: The dry sand mould is prepared in the normal manner as that of green
sand mould, i.e., by mixing base sand, clay, water and other additives. St ength is realized
after baking the mould in the oven, to remove moisture present in them. Baking is carried
o
out for 6-12 hours at 200-300 C, depending on the size of the mould and type of metal being
poured.
Advantages:
Moulds are stronger than green sand moulds.
Surface finish of the casting is better.
Defects related to moisture are eliminated.

Disadvantages:

 Production is slower, labour and cost due to aking process.
 
Under baked or over baked moulds s another disadvantage.
 
Not suitable for large & heavy cast ngs as they are difficult to bake.
No Bake sand moulds: A no bake or self setting sand mould is one that does not require
baking. The main ingredients are base sand, binder (resin type), hardener and a catalyst or
accelerator. The bonding strength developed in moulds by means of a self-setting chemical
reaction between binder and hardener. In some cases, a catalyst or an accelerator is added to
speed up the chemical reaction.

Advantages:
Higher strength about 50 to 100 times that of green sand moulds.
Patterns can be stripped within a few minutes after ramming, which is not possible in
green and dry sand mould.
Moulds can be stored for longer periods.
Highly simplified moulding.
Better dimensional accuracy & stability.
Improve casting quality.
Surface finish is excellent.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Disadvantages:

Use of resin and catalyst causes lot of environmental problem both within (i.e. during

mixing & pouring) and outside (dumping of sand).
 
Resins and catalysts are expensive.
 
Unsafe for human operators.
 
Due to high strength & hardness, reuse of sand is slightly difficult.
MOULDING SAND MIXTURE INGREDIENTS FOR DIFFERENT SAND
MIXTURES
A moulding sand is a mixture of base sand, binder and additives. Ing edients for dry sand
mixture are similar to that of green sand.

a. Ingredients for Green Sand Mixture

Green sand mixture is composed of base sand, binde , moistu e nd dditives.
Base Sand: Silica sand is used as the base sand. It possesses f vourable properties,
inexpensive and can be reused many number of times. The amount of silica sand added
may vary depending on the requirements.
Binder: Bentonite (clay binder) is the widely used inder for bonding sand particles. It is
activated in the presence of water. A est ond etween the sand can be obtained with
bentonite varying from 6-12% and water 3-5%.
Additives: Additives are added n small quantities to develop certain new properties or
to enhance the existing properties of moulding sand. Sea coal, silica flour, wood flour
and iron oxide are commonly used additives.

b. Ingredients for No-bake sand mixture:

Of all the various no -bake sand mixture, viz., Furan system, Phenolic urethane system,
Alkyd system, sodium silicate binder system, etc. Ingredients of Alkyd binder system
which is one of the most widely used binder system is discussed below.
Base sand: Silica sand is used as the base sand.

Binder: he alkyd binder system consists of three parts:

Part – A (binder)
Part – B (hardener)
Part – C (catalyst)

Part – A (binder): The binder is alkyd resin which is obtained by reacting linseed oil
with a polybase acid like iso-pathalic and solvents like turpentine, kerosene or mineral
spirit to improve flowability. Its addition ranges from 2-5% based on weight of sand.
Part – B (hardener): The hardener is a reacted product between cobalt/lead salts and
napthanic acid. Its addition ranges from 5-10% based on weight of binder.
Part – C (catalyst): Methylene-diphenyl-Di-isocyanate commonly known as MDI is
used as catalyst to speed up the chemical reaction. It addition ranges from 20-25% based
on weight of binder.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

METHODS USED FOR SAND MOULDING

The various sand moulding methods are:-

Bench moulding
Floor moulding
Pit moulding &
Machine moulding

Bench Moulding: Bench moulding is preferred for small jobs and is ca ied out on a bench
of convenient height. The bench moulder (mould maker) prepa es the mould manually while
standing.
Floor Moulding: Floor moulding is preferred for large size moulds th t c nnot be carried out
on benches. In most of the foundries, moulding is c ied out on floors irrespective of the size
of jobs.
Pit moulding: Large castings that cannot be accommodated in mould box (flasks) are made
in pits dug on the floor. The pits form the drag part of mould and a separate cope box is
placed above the pit. The mould maker enters the pit and prepares the mould. The cope box
is rammed using dry sand with r sers placed at su ta le location.
The walls of the pit are lined w th r ck and the ottom is covered with moulding sand
with connecting vent pipes to the floor level for easy escape of hot gases. A crane is used
for handling the cope box and other operations.

Machine moulding: In bench, floor and pit moulding, all the operations viz., ramming,
withdrawing pattern, rolling flasks, etc., are done manually by mould makers. But when
large number of castings are to be produced manual operations consumes more time and
also accuracy and uniformity of moulding varies. To overcome this difficulty, machine
moulding is used. The operations perform by machines includes:
Ramming moulding sand: By jolt operations or Jolt squeeze machines.
Rapping the pattern: Patterns are rapped in the sand with vibrators that are operated
electrically or by compressed air.
Removal of pattern: By raising or lowering the mould, or by raising or lowering the
pattern.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

CORES

Cores are used in the mould to produce mainly hollow castings. It is the only method
through which cavities can be produced in the casting without machining.
Core sand is used to prepare the core. A core consists of base sand, a binder and water if
required. Special types of binders are used for the purpose. Core sand is filled in a metal or
wooden die then rammed to get the desired geometry of the die. The shaped sand represents
green core. This core gains strength after suitable treatments, depending on the t pe of
binder used.

TYPES OF CORES
Cores are classified based on:
a) Condition of core: i. Green sand core - cont ins moisture
ii. Dry sand core - Co es does not cont in moisture,
co e in the dried form
b) Binder used i. Resin bonded co e - contains esin as binder

ii. Sodium silicate core - contains sodium silicate as the

binder
iii. O l onded core - contains oil as binder
iv. Shell core - contains urea/phenol formaldehyde
resin as binder
c) Hardening process i. CO2 process - uses co2 gas to harden the sand
used ii. No bake oil - uses air to harden the sand
iii Furan no bake - uses heating to harden the sand
iv. Nishiyama - uses chemical reaction to harden the
sand
v. Fluid sand - uses chemical reaction to harden
the sand
d) Shape & position i. Horizontal core - core placed in horizontal
position of the core ii. Vertical core - core placed in vertical position
iii. Balanced core - core hanging on one side
iv. Hanging core - core suspended from the top.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Green sand core: A green sand core is composed of a mixture of silica sand, binder
(bentonite), moisture and additives. The preparation of green sand core is similar to that
used for green sand mould.
Dry sand core: The sand used for preparing a dry sand core is different from that used for
dry sand moulds. A dry sand core is composed of a mixture of silica sand and binder. The
binder may be sodium silicate, Portland cement, linseed oil, mineral oil, natural resins, etc.
Binder used : explained above.
Hardening process used : explained above

Shape and position of the core:

a. Horizontal core: The core is placed horizont lly in the mould, it is known as
horizontal core. The core prints are provided at both ends of the core to rest in the seats initially
provided by the pattern. These core prints helps the co e to be secu ely nd correctly positioned in
the mould cavity.

b. Vertical core: When the axis of the core is vertical, it is known as vertical core.
c. Balanced core: A balanced core is one that is supported from its one end only. Such
cores are used when the cavity required is only to a certain depth.

d. Hanging core: The core is supported from the top, the core hangs vertically from the
mould and the core may be provided with a hole for molten metal to flow.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

e. Drop core: Drop core is used when the axis of the desired hole does not co inside with
the parting line of the mould, i.e., the core is required to be placed either above or below
the parting line.

f. Kiss core: In some cases, pattern cannot be provided with core prints nd hence no seat
will be available as a rest for the core. In such cases, the core is held in position between
the cope and the drag by the pressure exerted f om the cope on the dr g. Such a core is
called a kiss core and is shown in fig.

g. Ram-up core: When a core is to be placed in an inaccessible position, it is difficult to

place it after ramming the mould. The core used in this case is called a ram-up core and
is placed in the mould along with the pattern before ramming fig.

ME HOD OF MAKING CORES

Core making consists of the following four steps:
1. Core sand preparation
2. Core making
3. Core baking
4. Core finishing
1. Core sand preparation: The core sand of desired type (dry sand) and composition
along with additives is mixed manually or using muller of suitable type.
2. Core making: Cores are prepared manually or using machines depending on the needs.
Machine like jolt machine, sand slinger, core blower, etc., are used to for large scale
continuous production, while small sized cores for limited production are manually
made.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

A core box is similar to a pattern that gives a suitable shape to the core fig. shows a core box
used to produce rectangular shaped cores. The procedure involved for preparing core is as
follows:

 
The prepared core sand mixture is rammed manually into the core box.

The core box is inverted over a core plate and rapped in all direction using wooden

mallet.
 
The box is lifted vertically to leave the core on the core plate.
 
The core along with the core plate is sent for baking.

3. Core baking: Cores are baked in ovens in order to drive away the moisture in them and
also to harden the binder thereby imparting strength to the core. The temperature and
o
duration for baking may vary from 93-232 C and from a few minutes to hours
respectively depending on the size of the core and type of binder used.

4. Core finishing: The baked cores are finished by rubbing or filing with special tools to
remove any fins, bumps, loose sand or other sand projection from its surface. The cores
are also checked for dimensions and cleanliness. Finally, if cores are made in parts, they are
assembled by using suitable pastes, pressed and dried in air before placing them in mould and
cavity.

BINDERS USED FOR CORES

Binders used for core making are of various types: each type used to provide some desired
property to a core for particular use or set of conditions. The core binders commonly used
are discussed below:
a) Binders that become firm at room temperature.
The binders that come under this group include:
 
Sodium silicate
Sodium silicate is mixed with silica sand to prepare a core of desired shape and size.
Vent holes are made in the core after which carbon-dioxide gas is passed through it. The
core hardens rapidly within a few seconds after gassing is stopped.
 
Port Land Cement
Port land cement is mixed with silica sand and water to prepare a core of desired shape
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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

after which it is made to set (dry) in a room for about 72 hours. The strength develop
with this binder is very high and hence, preferred for heavy steel and gray iron castings.
 
Rubber Cement (Rubber latex)
Bonding of cores with this binder is a patented process. Silica sand is mixed with water,
and then the rubber latex (obtained from plant) is added. The core is rammed and
allowed to harden at room temperature.
 
Synthetic resins (No bake binders)
Synthetic resins like phenol and urea formaldehyde are used as binders. They are mixed
with hardeners and/or catalyst to bring about a chemical reaction. St ength development
in cores takes place within a few minutes after mixing.

b) Binder that become firm on baking

This group of binders does not develop their strength by chemic l or physic l changes,
rather they become hard on heating (baking). Binde s m te i ls of this group include:
Vegetable oils ex. Linseed oil
Marine animal oil ex. Whale oil
Cereal binder
Dextrin made from starch
Molasses (by product of sugar ndustry)
Pitch (a coal tar product)
Protein binders ex. Gelatin & glues.

c) Binder that harden on cooling after being heated

A binder that softens on heating and hardens on cooling includes natural resins like:
 
Gum resins – obtained by tapping the living tree and distilling the gum.
 
Wood resins – obtained from pine stump wood.
 
Limed wood resins – these are wood resins treated with lime
 
Coal tar resins – a product of coal tar industry.
d) Other binders
Clay binders – bentonite mixed with water.
Saw dust and wood floor – although not pure binders (they provide little adhesive
strength), they serve to improve the collapsibility of the core.

GATING

The concept of gating is very important, as it helps one to learn the controlled flow of
molten metal from the crucible or ladle into the mould cavity.

The term gating or gating system refers to all the channels or cavities through which the
molten metal flows to reach and fill the mould cavity. Fig shows a simple gating system
which consists of the following components.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

a. Sprue b. Pouring cup

c. Runner d. Ingates or Gate

a) Sprue
A sprue is a vertical passage way through wh ch the molten metal will enter the runner. It is
also called „down gate
or „down sprue
. The sprue is tapered in cross-section with its
bigger end at the top connected to the pouring cup while its smaller end connected to the
runner.
b) Pouring cup
The enlarged portion (usually funnel shaped) of the sprue at its top into which the molten
metal is poured is called pouring cup. (Fig. 15 a & b). In some cases, pouring basin is used
instead of cup. The pouring basin has a larger opening as shown in fig 15(a). It makes
pouring easier, eliminates aspiration (air pick-up) and reduces the momentum of the liquid
flowing into the mould settling first into it.
c) Runner
he runner is a horizontal passage way through which the molten metal flows into the gates.
he cross section of the runner runner may be square or trapezoid and its length is very
large compared to its width.

d) Runner extension
It is a small portion of the runner that extends beyond the last gate. It is used to trap the slag
in the initial molten metal.

e) Ingates
The ingates or gate is a short passageway which carries the molten metal from the runner to
the mould cavity. The gates used may vary in number and depends on the size of the casting
and rate of solidification of molten metal. A gate may be built as a part of the pattern or it
may be cut in the mould using gate cutter tool. The combination of sprue base, runner and
ingates completes the total pouring system of any casting.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

RISERING
When the molten metal solidifies, it shrinks in volume. At this stage, if it does not have a
source of more molten metal to feed as it shrinks, voids appear leading to defects in
castings. This problem is overcome with the use of risers.

A riser or feed head is a vertical passage that stores the liquid metal and supplies (feed) the
same to the casting as it solidifies. This means that the metal in the riser must stay liquid
longer than the metal in the part being cast.

Requirement of a riser

a) A riser must be large enough that the casting detail it is intended to feed. This helps
continuous feeding of liquid metal to the solidifying c sting so th t shrinkage cavities
are eliminated.
b) The riser must be kept open to the atmosphe e and pl ced in such location that it
maintains a positive pressure of liquid metal on all po tions of the casting it is intended
to feed.
c) A riser should be located in a position that will cause directional solidification from the
casting towards it.

PRINCIPLE OF GATING SYSTEM

1. A good gating system should help easy and complete filling of the mould cavity.
2. It should fill the mould cavity with molten metal with least amount of turbulence.
3. It should prevent mould erosion and gas pickup.
4. It should establish proper temperature gradient in the casting.
5. It should promote directional solidification.
6. It should regulate the rate of flow of metal into the mould cavity.

TYPES OF GATES

he common types of gate are:

1. op Gate
2. Bottom Gate
3. Parting line Gate
4. Step Gate

1. Top Gate
The top are used for simple casting. Molten metal flows into the mould cavity directly from
the top. They are the most efficient type of gating. Simple to mould.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

2. Bottom Gate
The bottom gates are used for denser metals such as steel. Molten metal flows into the
mould cavity from the bottom and slowly rises up. It avoids e osion of mold taken more
time in moulding. Bottom gate is shown in fig.

3. Parting line gate

The gates located at the junction of cope and the drag boxes. They can be easily prepared.
Molten metal flows into the cavity from a certain height. These are used for most of the
non-ferrous alloys and steel castings Fig.

4. Horn Gate

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

TYPES OF RISERS

Basically riser can be classified as open riser and blind riser. The open riser is kept open to
the atmosphere at the top whereas the blind riser is close to the atmosphere.

Open Riser
An open riser is a riser provided in the mould cavity when the top portion is open to
the atmosphere. It is easy to mould. Further, an open riser can be classified as Top riser –
when the riser is placed above the casting. Side riser - when the riser is placed by the side of
the casting. Top risers are extensively used since its efficiency is ve y high. In open riser
molten metal is subjected to atmospheric pressure directly.

Blind riser
A blind riser as shown in f g. s one wh ch is completely enclosed in the mould and not
exposed to the atmosphere. Due to this, the metal in the riser cools slower and thus stay
liquid longer promoting directional solidification.

FETTLING AND CLEANING OF CASTINGS

Castings are to be separated from sand mould box before the gates and risers are removed.
This is referred to as fettling and cleaning of casting. The steps involved are:

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A
Fettling

Shake out sand, Casting and mould boxes are separated

Sand lumps are broken Returned to the moulding section

Cleared of nails, wires, etc to be used again

Cleaning operation of castings

Returned to sand Muller

For reuse for moulding Involves

Removing sand by shot bl sting

Removing core sand

Removing moulding s nd on the c sting surface

Removing gates and ise s

Removing fins, excess metal, sand, etc.,

Leveling the su face by g inding

Rectifying the casting from defects

Cleaning operation depends on the cast ng shape, size, metal and the process used.

Sand cores are removed by shak ng, ch pp ng, poking or dissolving, etc.,

Gates, risers, fins are removed by oxy-acetylene flame cutting, hammering, abrasive
grinding wheel, etc.,

Sand sticking on the casting surface removed by shot blasting or sand blasting.

MOULDING MACHINES

Moulding machines are used to maintain mold quality, reduce allowances, have
reproducibility in molding, casting and to enhance productivity.

he following are moulding machines, classified based on the method of ramming.

a. Jolt machine
b. Squeeze machine
c. Jolt-squeeze machine
d. Sand slinger

a. Jolt Machine

The machine consists of a cylinder with two passages on for permitting compressed air at
the bottom and another for air to go out. A piston is located in the cylinder and can move up
and down. The piston carries a table at the top. One the top of the table a pattern can be
fixed and mould box can be placed around it. A control panel is located near the machine to
operate it. The machine is located on a firm and rigid concrete base. A hopper carrying sand
mixture is located above the machine. By operating the lever compressed air can be made to
flow through the bottom of the piston.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Working operation:
 First the moulding sand is filled into the box to cover the p ttern.
 The pattern is placed on the table. Moulding box is pl ced on to the t ble.
Compressed air let into the cylinder.
 Now the table starts moving upwards till the bottom of the piston reaches the top
portion.
 At top portion the air escapes out causing a drop in the pressure inside the cylinder.
 Due to its own weight the table along w th the ox drops down.
 Again the compressed air lifts the p ston up t ll top point and the box is dropped
downwards.
A jolting action is created.
The process is repeated several times to achieve a desired hardness in the mould.
Sand is compacted more at the bottom due to jolting action.
Cope and drag boxes are prepared this way.

b. Squeeze Machine
It consists of a cylinder and piston assembly as in jolting machine. It has only one
opening in the cylinder connected by a two way valve. Through this valve compressed air
can be let inside the cylinder or let out. Thus the piston can be lifted or lowered inside the
cylinder. he piston head carries a table on which the platen/board corresponding to the
inside cross section of the mould box is fixed. This board when positioned above the box
will squeeze the sand in it when the piston moves upwards. The platen can be swung to one
side for placing the mold box and filling the sand.

Working operation:

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

First the mould box is kept on the table fixed with the pattern.
Moulding sand is filled in the box at least 25% in excess of the box volume.
The platen/board is brought in position above the box.
Compressed air is then allowed inside the cylinder through the value.
Now the piston will move upwards along with the box.
The platen will squeeze the sand in the box during this period.
Compacted sand will have more compaction on the top and less at the bottom due to
squeezing action.
The air pressure is released now. The piston and box move down wa ds.
The box is ejected out using ejector pins.
One half of the mould is ready now.
Similarly next half is done and assembled.
Two machines placed side by side are used to prepare cope nd dr g molds.
Suitable for small works and shallow boxes.

c. Jolt and Squeeze Machine

Here both jolt and squeeze act on are mparted to the

sand. Constructional features

 
It consists of a piston (P) carry ng a table (T)
 
Piston is housed in a sleeve (S)
 
Sleeve has an opening O 1 at the top and another opening (O3) at the bottom
 
Sleeve is housed in an outer casing (C) which has a firm base (B)
 
The casing has 3 openings O2, O4 and O5
 
Opening O4 is connected to the valve 1 referred to as Jolt valve
 
Opening O5 is connected to valve 2 referred to as squeeze valve

Opening O2 is the exhaust part and connects the opening O1 Valves 1 and 2 are

connected to a pipe which in turn is connected to compressed air supply.
he pattern for moulding can be mounted on the table and the moulding box can be
placed in position by using locating pins.

A squeeze head at the top of the machine is used to squeeze the sand in the mould
box.
ARUN.R, Assistant Professor, Dept., of Mech Engg., SVIT, Bengaluru-64. Page 35
METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Working Operations:

To start with the piston and sleeve are in the bottom position. O1, O2 nd O3, O4 are
connected and are in line. By opening the valve 1, comp essed air is made to pass through
the opening O4, O3. Now the piston carrying the mould box with sand mixture moves
upwards till the bottom of the piston just move a ove the opening O 1. Suddenly the
compressed air below the piston escapes out through O1, O2, opening. This results in drop in
the pressure inside the sleeve below the p ston. Due to this the piston drops downwards
causing jolting action. The sand gets compacted. Now the connection between O1, and the
sleeve chamber is cut off. Since the valve 1 connects O 4, and O3, this will again increase the
pressure inside the sleeve. This once again lifts the piston upwards. When the bottom of the
piston crosses the opening O 1 , the pressure drops once again causing jolting. This can be
repeated several times. Now for bringing about squeezing action, valve 1 is closed and valve
2 is opened. This results in establishing connection between valve 2 and opening O 5. This
causes increase in the pressure at the bottom of the sleeve. Now the piston and the sleeve
now get lifted upwards. The squeeze head is brought in line with the mould box containing
sand. This results in the squeezing action of the sand against the squeeze head. Squeezing
action can be repeated. By this mechanism both jolting squeezing can be imparted to the
sand in the mould. The hardness of the mould will be uniform throughout from top to
bottom.

d. Sand Slingers:
 
Sand slinger is used for large boxes for preparing large molds.
 
Large amounts of sand is handled.
 
Uniform ramming is obtained.
 
Ramming is fast.
 
Initial cost is high.
 
A number of moulds can be prepared one after the other, around the slinger.

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METAL CASTING AND WELDING 15ME35A

Steps in moulding using sand sl nger:

1. Mould boxes with patterns are kept around the ase of the slinger.
2. Mixed sand is dumped in the conta ner
3. The slinger is switched on.
4. The conveyor buckets carry sand to the top and delivers to the belt conveyor.
5. The sand is now conveyed into the horizontal hopper containing a screw conveyor.
6. At the end of the hopper an impeller keeps rotating and carries the sand mixed from the
screw conveyor and throws it out.
7. The sand at high velocity is thrown above the pattern and gets consolidated.
8. niform hardness is obtained in the mould.

ARUN.R, Assistant Professor, Dept., of Mech Engg., SVIT, Bengaluru-64. Page 37