29 January 2018

Advantages and disadvantages of centrifugal casting

Centrifugal casting is the process where molten metal is poured into a mould that is rapidly moving around a fixed axis. The molten metal comes into contact with this rotating mould under a pressure provided by centrifugal force gives better filling of the mould. It is mainly used for making parts having the shape of bodies of revolutions because this process provides very high grain density and porosity is almost zero. Now, let us have a deep insight into some more advantages and disadvantages of this process. 


Advantages of centrifugal casting :

  • The mechanical properties of centrifugally cast jobs are better compared to other processes because the inclusions such as slag and oxides get segregated towards the centre and can be removed by machining. 
  • In the solidification process, the pressure acting on the metal causes the porosity to be eliminated giving rise to dense metal.
  • Up to a certain thickness of objects, proper directional solidification can be obtained starting from the mould surface to the centre. 
  • No cores are required for making concentric holes in the case of true centrifugal castings. 
  • There is no need for gates and runners, which increases the casting yield, reaching almost 100%. 
  • The high output obtained through this casting process.
  • Very huge parts can also be produced up to 61 thousand kgs. 
  • The cylindrical shape can easily be obtained.
  • Good for mass production. 
  • No use of gates and risers. 

Disadvantages of centrifugal casting : 

  • The inner surface of the casting is the inaccurate diameter. 
  • Material limitation, not all alloys can be cast. 
  • Highly skilled workers are required. 
  • High initial cost. 
  • An only certain shape which is axisymmetric and having concentric holes are suitable for true centrifugal casting.
  • Wastage of material is high for this process.
  • This process required careful observations by of professionals.
  • Many other casting processes are better than this process because it is a traditional technique.