Some basic research for thin-wall casting technology

Vacuum suction fluidity measurements were done on aluminum alloys and cast iron to establish the relationship between fluidity and various casting parameters. A prominent effect of mold coating plus mold atmosphere was found on aluminum alloys. The effects of silicon content, inoculation and spheroidizing treatments were evaluated on cast iron. Most of the effects found were explained in terms of heat transfer to the mold. In extremely thin cavity, viscosity and surface tension also play some role. In hypereutectic Al-Si alloys supercooling and nucleation are involved. The results of this basic research can be applied to practical foundry problems for manufacturing castings of even thinner sections, including sand castings and die castings.