The Feasibility of Reclaiming Shell Material from Investment Casting

Peters, Timothy M.; Twarog, Daniel L.

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/2049 Copy

Description

Title

The Feasibility of Reclaiming Shell Material from Investment Casting

Author(s)

• Peters, Timothy M.
• Twarog, Daniel L.

Contributor(s)

• Illinois. Hazardous Waste Research and Information Center
• University of Missouri-Rolla
• American Foundrymen's Society

Issue Date

1992

Keyword(s)

Foundries -- Waste reduction

Abstract

This report examines the feasibility of investment shell component reclamation. Shell material components and their compositions are investigated with an industry survey, a study of the available literature, and analysis of specimen shell materials. physical properties and factors related to the reclamation and reuse of shell materials are described. Well known mineral processing methods are capable of producing concentrates of the various shell components. The theory and techniques of some applicable processes are discussed to assist with the development of reclamation operations. The recommended methods are; comminution by roll crushing, component concentration by screening, gravity settling or heavy medium separation. Aluminosilicate stucco (a major component of many investment shells) can be recovered in a form suitable for reuse as backup stucco. Zircon (a minor component in many shell compositions) -can be concentrated in an impure form, and subsequent caustic liberation treatments can remove the intermixed silica phases. Reuse of such zircon in investment casting may be possible but will require careful qualification testing. Fused and crystalline silica (major components of most shell compositions) are not reusable for investment casting. The feasibility of reclamation will be influenced by individual foundry choices of materials, composition and shell practice.

Publisher

Hazardous Waste Research and Information Center

Series/Report Name or Number

TR Series (Hazardous Waste Research and Information Center) ; 004

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/2049

Sponsor(s)/Grant Number(s)

• HWRIC Project No. RRT-10
• NTIS PB92-162197

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