Characterization of A356 investment cast component produced using controlled liquid metal cooling technique

Abstract

In this work Controlled Liquid Metal Cooling (CLMC) integrated in gravity investment casting process is evaluated in order to minimize the internal defects and subsequently improve the casting yield and mechanical properties. A356 was cast and cooled using conventional air cooling and controlled liquid metal cooling technique. Optical light stereo-microscopy, optical light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive x-ray scope and tensile tests were performed to investigate internal defects, microstructural features, grain sizes, shapes and performance. Microstructures of CLMC sample showed modified eutectic structure with spherical, dendritic primary alpha grains and reduced shrinkage porosity. Mechanical properties of CLMC are competitive to conventional air cooled samples.