Abstract
This paper explores the lost foam casting process using expanded polystyrene foam patterns to create complex and detailed castings. The study evaluates the effects of various parameters, such as fluidity, pouring temperature, and foam pattern density, on the quality of the castings. Aluminum-silicon alloys were used due to their excellent mechanical properties and castability. Photomicrographs of the microstructures were taken to compare the castings with those produced by traditional sand casting methods. Mechanical tests, including tensile, hardness, and impact tests, were conducted to assess the performance of the castings. The results indicate that lost foam casting can produce high-quality castings with reduced machining operations and costs.
Keywords
Lost Foam Casting Expanded Polystyrene Fluidity Aluminum-Silicon Alloy Microstructure Mechanical Tests Tensile Strength Hardness Impact Resistance Foam Pattern Density