Pouring Molten Metal: 3 Effective Methods
Pouring the molten metal is an important process that allows the molten metal to flow from the ladle to the crucible. This process is brief but critical to the success of metal casting, so operators must master the correct molten metal pouring method.
A pouring group, consisting of the ladle directing operator, the ladle turning operator, and the signaling operator, is typically used in this process. The crane is usually controlled by the signaling operator, and it is sufficient for this operator to issue the command.
The process of pouring molten metal is typically performed by an operator in the foundry industry. The large ladle distributes fluid to these carriers.
The proper metal liquid pouring methods are as follows:
1. As smooth as possible
The molten metal should flow smoothly from the ladle to the crucible. Avoid unnecessary fluid agitation and vibration. Both from the mechanics of the pouring tool and the operator. Pouring should be smooth to avoid molten metal entering the mold cavity due to agitation. Smoothly entering liquid produces a unidirectional (not random) flow.
If the liquid is unstable, there are numerous risks that can occur, including:
a. Turbulence
Turbulent liquids do not perform well in metal casting. Fluid turbulence causes trapped air gas, which has the potential to cause porous defects or gas trapping.
b. Inclusions of sand
The risk of the mold collapsing and the molding sand entering the liquid is increased by the vibration or turbulence of the liquid moving randomly (without direction). This is a common occurrence in wet sand molds (greensand).
2. As Quickly As Possible
Despite the fact that the liquid being poured has a high temperature, it will drop tens of degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds.
The liquid must fill the entire mold cavity as quickly as possible. Otherwise, there’s a chance the liquid will freeze before it can fill the mold. This is commonly referred to as a misrun.
3. As Near As Possible
The distance (pouring height) between the ladle’s mouth and the cup should ideally be as short as possible. This is meant to be:
First, the liquid enters the mold effectively. Because the operator can easily direct the liquid into the cup, errors in the flow or waste of liquid can be avoided.
Second, with a low pouring height, the liquid will flow smoothly into the mold. Consider how liquid turmoil will occur if the pouring distance is too high.
Third, the less oxidized the liquid is the closer the pouring or the lower the pouring height. Outside air could enter the metal liquid being poured.