You’ve probably heard of sand casting, but not silica sol casting. Let’s see why is this a great alternative for steel castings. In this article, we will share some of the advantages that silica sol casting.
Silica Sol Casting Advantages:
Silica sol casting is an advanced lost-wax casting process. It has the advantage of high molding accuracy, good surface quality, and excellent mechanical properties. So what are its specific advantages?
High dimensional accuracy:
The transverse shrinkage rate of silica sol casting is only 0.3% to 0.5%, which can be controlled within 0.2% by scientific formula design and strict process control; the transverse shrinkage rate is only 2%-4%, which can be controlled within 1% by scientific formula design and strict process control.
The average surface roughness Ra can reach 1.6 μm and the average dimensional deviation can reach CT7-9 level; the maximum weight can reach 15 tons, the maximum length can reach 4 meters, and the minimum wall thickness can reach 3mm.
Excellent surface quality:
The magnesium alloy castings produced with silica sol shell have a clean surface and no sand inclusion defects; no pinhole defects such as pits, cracks, etc.; smooth surface, small friction coefficient, and excellent wear resistance; thin-film shell with low thermal conductivity to prevent molten metal burn-through; high dimensional accuracy, small deformation; box core without burr, high filling ability, reduce post-processing work
The Bottom Line:
All in all, silica sol casting is a pretty good option for projects that need quality at an affordable price.