This AFS-sponsored research demonstrates the importance of firing parameters on the thermo-mechanical properties of investment shells. With this knowledge in hand, foundries are one step closer to achieving shells that provide sufficient mechanical strength with fewer layers. This could translate into a marked reduction in operating costs.
Principal investigator Mingzhi Xu and his team showed that the firing temperature and firing time clearly have a significant impact on the shell thermo-physical properties. It was found, for instance, that a longer firing time does not necessarily provide a stronger shell. In addition, different firing processes can vary the amount of cristobalite formation during the casting process, which determines the thermal conductivity of the shells.
Future work by Xu and company will leverage data emanating from this project to further improve the investment casting process.
This AFS Members Only Webinar will begin at 1 p.m. CT.