Experimental investigation and numerical analysis of compaction behaviour of moulding sand

Abstract

The compaction behaviour of green sand was studied to assess the applicability of the Cooper–Eaton equation under conditions close to those of real foundry operations. The results indicate that the Cooper–Eaton equation describes the behaviour reasonably well, allowing prediction of the pressure required to achieve sand moulds of reasonable density. A corresponding distinct element method numerical simulation was also attempted. The study contributes useful information to the understanding of green sand compaction. It is clear that spherical sand is preferable to improve filling behaviour and that the gap between mould wall and pattern must be sufficiently large to avoid prevent weak sand compaction.