Aim of the research was to optimize the mechanical performances of parts produced by the Z-Cast Direct Metal Casting process varying the thermal treatment parameters. Adopting the optimized settings, a specific dimensional evaluation was planned to calculate the International Tolerance (IT) grade ensured by the process.Cylindrical Z-Cast samples were manufactured and heat-treated varying time and temperature. The baked parts underwent compression tests and the rupture surfaces were observed using the S.E.M.. A regression analysis was performed on the results to optimize the baking process.For the dimensional assessment a specific benchmark was designed, built and treated. It was measured before and after baking using a CMM and the results were processed to obtain the IT grade.The results proved that in the heat treatment of Z-Cast parts time has a negligible effect on the compressive strength, whereas temperature can be optimized for best mechanical response. The IT grade was calculated for green and baked parts; separately in all three directions in space. Tolerance was proved to be fundamentally the same in every direction and independent on the heat treatment. The considered Rapid Casting process can be classified in IT15 grade.The paper suggests an original approach to improve knowledge of the Z-Cast process. The study of the building phenomena was combined with macroscopic measurements to develop a solid understanding of the expected performances, which is fundamental in order to support the industrial application of the technology.

Direct Metal Rapid Casting: mechanical optimization and tolerance evaluation / Bassoli, Elena; E., Atzeni. - In: RAPID PROTOTYPING JOURNAL. - ISSN 1355-2546. - STAMPA. - 15 (4):(2009), pp. 238-243. [10.1108/13552540910979758]

Direct Metal Rapid Casting: mechanical optimization and tolerance evaluation

BASSOLI, Elena;
2009

Abstract

Aim of the research was to optimize the mechanical performances of parts produced by the Z-Cast Direct Metal Casting process varying the thermal treatment parameters. Adopting the optimized settings, a specific dimensional evaluation was planned to calculate the International Tolerance (IT) grade ensured by the process.Cylindrical Z-Cast samples were manufactured and heat-treated varying time and temperature. The baked parts underwent compression tests and the rupture surfaces were observed using the S.E.M.. A regression analysis was performed on the results to optimize the baking process.For the dimensional assessment a specific benchmark was designed, built and treated. It was measured before and after baking using a CMM and the results were processed to obtain the IT grade.The results proved that in the heat treatment of Z-Cast parts time has a negligible effect on the compressive strength, whereas temperature can be optimized for best mechanical response. The IT grade was calculated for green and baked parts; separately in all three directions in space. Tolerance was proved to be fundamentally the same in every direction and independent on the heat treatment. The considered Rapid Casting process can be classified in IT15 grade.The paper suggests an original approach to improve knowledge of the Z-Cast process. The study of the building phenomena was combined with macroscopic measurements to develop a solid understanding of the expected performances, which is fundamental in order to support the industrial application of the technology.
2009
15 (4)
238
243
Direct Metal Rapid Casting: mechanical optimization and tolerance evaluation / Bassoli, Elena; E., Atzeni. - In: RAPID PROTOTYPING JOURNAL. - ISSN 1355-2546. - STAMPA. - 15 (4):(2009), pp. 238-243. [10.1108/13552540910979758]
Bassoli, Elena; E., Atzeni
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11380/608561
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