It’s said Swiss machining originated with the need to produce tiny screws for the Swiss watch industry. True or not, the definition has broadened over time. Today it describes a technology for precision machining small cylindrical parts quickly and efficiently.
Engineers turn to nickel-based superalloys when stainless steel can’t provide enough corrosion resistance or high temperature strength. The downside of alloys like Inconel® though, is that they are hard to machine. This makes investment casting the most practical manufacturing route.
The combustion gases expelled from a gas turbine will quickly erode and can even melt most steels. For internal components to survive in such an environment, they are investment cast in nickel-based superalloys, precision machined and carefully inspected. Here’s an
Investment casting is ideal for producing parts that will be highly loaded, subjected to high temperatures and pressures, or require precise geometry that minimizes secondary operations. This is especially true when the alloys used are expensive and hard to machine.
Cavities in parts made by sand casting, like valve bodies, pump housings, and engine blocks, are there mainly to channel, guide and hold fluids. They can also reduce finished part weight and save on material. In principle they could be
The end covers, fuel nozzles, ,bearing housings and associated components at the heart of a gas turbine are some of the hardest parts of any kind to manufacture. Forged and cast from high strength alloys, it takes precision machining of
Components used in commercial vehicles must have strength, toughness, and a little ductility. Good heat transfer properties and low density are bonus factors. These requirements push part designers to the family of cast iron alloys, and this is a metallurgy
A high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent thermal conductivity and good corrosion-resistance are just some of the reasons for using aluminum. If you’re looking for low mass, good heat transfer, or the opportunity to avoid coating processes, precision aluminum investment casting is
The investment casting process produces parts with fine features, thin walls and excellent surface finish. This cuts down on machining operations, and reduces the amount of metal needed, lowering part mass and saving time and cost. However, these advantages are
Metalcasting Congress is the premier foundry trade show in North America. For 2023, it takes place at the Huntington Convention Center in downtown Cleveland. It’s a forum for design engineers and sourcing professionals to learn casting know-how, exchange industry trend
Sand casting is a process where sand forms a mold that holds molten metal as it cools and solidifies. It’s also used for the cores that create hollow regions inside the cast parts. Sand grains must stick together to create
Everyone who uses a scissor lift aerial work platform (AWP) wants to know they will be safe while up in the air. Harnesses and training are important, but so too is a hydraulic system that provides smooth, easily controlled movement.