Sand adherence in grey iron castings: metal–mould interface reactions and vapour phase transport of metal into the mould

The adherence of sand in iron and steel castings is an acknowledged problem in casting processes where the use of siliceous material is involved. The adherence of sand results in poor surface finish of castings and. adversely affects the quality as well as the manufacturing cost of castings. The mechanism involved in the adherence of sand is yet to be fully explained. This investigation covered some aspects of the problem of sand adherence, namely: (i) the effect of the mould atmosphere upon the metal–mould interface reactions; (ii) the influence of the interface reactions on the sand adherence; and (iii) penetration of metal into the mould as a result of vapour phase transport of metal across the metal–mould interface. [Continues.]