Investigation of temperature, degree of vacuum, pattern coating thickness effects on mold filling in lost foam casting (LFC) process of A356 alloy by using full factorial of design experiment

Abstract

Lost foam casting (LFC) process with outstanding advantages has been known as a new casting technique in foundry engineering. Especially, the operation restricts errors of a mould because of using expanded patterns without parting line being appropriate for the complex model. Great interest in this technology of the casting manufacturers is mainly lower, compared with the traditional process, investment outlays and production costs. The use of unbounded sand also reduces its treatment cost, more friendly and simple with the environment.

The study examines the simultaneous effects of pouring temperature, degree of vacuum, coating thickness (through dipping time) on mold filling in LFC. A356 aluminum alloy is used in this study. By using a  full two-level factorial design of experimental technique to identify the significant manufacturing factors affecting the mold filling. Results of this investigation indicated that increasing pouring temperature, degree of vacuum and decreasing dipping time obtain casting with higher filling rate