Effect of Composition and Pouring Temperature of Cu-Sn Alloys on The Fluidity and Microstructure by Investment Casting

Abstract

The alloy composition and the pouring temperature are main parameters to avoid cast defects in the metal casting process. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of tin composition and pouring temperature on the fluidity and microstructure of Cu-Sn alloys to minimize product failure. The material used in this study was Cu with the addition of tin composition (20-25)% Sn by melting Cu = 99.9% and Sn = 99.9%. The pouring temperatures were varied T1=1000°C and T2=1100°C. Mold for fluidity test was used the wax pattern with investment casting method. The wax pattern for mold of fluidity test shaped bars with a length of 400 mm, the width of 10 mm and cavity thickness varies from 1.5-5 mm. The mold material was used natural ceramic such as clay (SiO2). Increased of the tin composition decreases the length of fluidity, while the increased pouring temperature and the cavity thickness of the mold increase the length of fluidity. Increasing tin composition and pouring temperature increases the phase microstructure α and triggers the formation of columnar dendrites. The high rate of cast metal fluidity and the thickness of the mold cavity greatly affect the microstructure of the alloy.