Abstract:

A report on investigations on the reclamation and reuse of shell ceramics in investment casting. Bars of ceramic (6 inches x 3/4 inch x 3/8 inch) were mixed using recipes based on Fused Silica and Alumino Silicates common to investment casting. The bars were tested for green strength and hot strength at two temperatures, 760oC and 1100oC. All heated specimens were then broken apart manually and then broken down particulates in a ball mill. The sieve size distribution of the milled material was compared to that of the virgin material. Then, the reclaimed material was remixed and retested, and the results were compared to the virgin mixes. The more promising mixes were run for several cycles. The alumino-silicates were successfully reclaimed at the highest temperature while the fused silica materials were not successful at any temperature except for partial reclamation of flour at 760oC (aluminum processing temperatures).