Abstract:
This study focuses on evaluating the molding properties of sand in Niger State for use in casting and explores the impact of these sand molds on the mechanical properties of aluminum casts. The molding properties examined include permeability, compactibility, moisture content, green strength, and dry strength. Sand samples were collected from five different locations in Niger State: Zungeru, Tungan Mallam, Wuya, Gidan Mangoro, and Tagwai Dam area villages. These samples were assessed according to the standards set by the American Foundry Society (AFS). Additionally, mechanical tests (tensile and hardness) and metallographic tests were conducted on the aluminum cast specimens produced using the sand samples from these locations to corroborate the findings of the sand tests.
The results of the sand tests were compared to the established acceptable ranges for sand casting properties. It was observed that the values obtained from the five different sand samples fell outside the specified ranges for aluminum alloy casting. Specifically, the sand test results yielded permeability values ranging from 72.08 to 96.85, green compressive strength values from 12.50 kN/m2 to 48.67 kN/m2, and dry compressive strength values from 85.00 kN/m2 to 650.00 kN/m2. These values did not align with the recommended mold property ranges for aluminum sand casting, which are typically defined as permeability between 10-30, green compressive strength between 50-70 kN/m2, and dry compressive strength between 200-550 kN/m2.
However, it was noted that the sand test results for Wuya, Zungeru, and Tagwai Dam area villages were within the acceptable range for casting heavy grey iron, as outlined by the standard mold property range for sand casting. On the other hand, the results from Gidan Mangoro village corresponded to the range for malleable iron castings. Notably, Tungan Mallam’s sand results did not align with the specified range provided in the standard for sand casting properties in its natural state, as presented in the reference table.
EVALUATING SAND MOULDING CHARACTERISTICS IN NIGER STATE FOR ALUMINUM CASTING AND DIVERSE FOUNDRY APPLICATIONS. GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
