Sand casting technique[edit source]
It seems that the sand casting technique noted here might not be ideal for small batches. Rather, green sand seems mostly useful for automated and very large plants, due to its regenerative ability. However, given that many machines are required for the regeneration of the sand, it seems not very practical/economic for small smelteries.
Rather than using these, perhaps alternatives such as "Lost foam" may be more suitable (Replicast CS or Polycast). The polystyrene can afterwards be burned (ie in the furnace).
For medium-sized smelteries, a belt and carousel system smeltery (see also: http://www.google.be/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=ingot+moulds+and+carousel#hl=nl&expIds=17259,27492,27556,27586,28104&xhr=t&q=carousel+ingot+mould+casting+machine&cp=36&pf=p&sclient=psy&source=hp&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=carousel+ingot+mould+casting+machine&gs_rfai=&pbx=1&fp=da944ea1e12678dd , http://gunloads.com/castboolits/showthread.php?p=886415 http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?t=18177 ) , using metal moulds may be more suitable. The metal moulds can be reused a great amount of times:
- 5000 times --> using cast iron
- 25000 times --> using cupper
- 50000 to 150000 times --> using aluminium
- 100000 to 200000 times --> using magnesium
- 250000 times --> using zinc
91.182.226.145 11:01, 13 December 2010 (UTC)