Introduction to Metalcasting

Modules

Big Picture of the Casting Process

This module identifies the primary casting processes and post-casting production processes that occur in a metalcasting facility. By the end of this module, you will be able to define key industry terms; describe the major departments in a metalcasting facility; and chronologically track a casting from the quotation process, through casting production, and finally to casting shipment. (0.2 CEU)

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Casting Design for Castability

This module focuses on how to choose an appropriate casting process based on the complexity and manufacturability of a part. Topics include: defining the various casting processes available, tolerances, and the opportunity to complete a challenge. This module is designed for those who are involved in selecting, designing, and creating various types of molds and castings. By the end of this module, you will be able to choose a suitable casting process based on the complexity and manufacturability of a part. (0.1 CEU)

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Casting Material Properties

This module covers the following topics: heat flow and cooling rates, mold materials and methods, voids, and irregularities, and postcasting treatments. These topics affect the final mechanical properties of a casting. By the end of this module, you will be able to identify and describe a variety of production characteristics that can influence the mechanical properties of a casting. (0.2 CEU)

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Types of Casting Tooling

This module explores the different types of tooling used in the metalcasting industry: permanent mold tooling, sand mold tooling, and investment pattern tooling. Common Tooling Department constraints are described. By the end of this module, you will be able to identify and describe the types of tooling that are used in major casting production processes. (0.1 CEU)

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Types of Alloys

This module will define the term alloy and identify the seven common alloys seen in the metalcasting industry: aluminum, copper, iron, steel, zinc, magnesium, and superalloys. This module will also differentiate between the terms, ferrous and nonferrous. By the end of the module, you will be able to identify the seven alloys used in the metalcasting industry and describe why certain alloys are used. (0.1 CEU)

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Types of Casting Processes

Based on the latest metalcasting census data, this module will identify the top casting processes and briefly identify the various advantages and disadvantages for each process. By the end of this module, you will be able to identify the various casting processes available for producing a metalcasting and describe the advantages and disadvantages of each of the common casting processes. (0.1 CEU)

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Melting and Pouring

This module addresses activities in the melt department of a metalcasting facility. It provides an overview of the process from the raw materials added to a furnace, to the adjustments made to the metal chemistry before consistently pouring molds. Safety issues regarding people, materials, and equipment are also highlighted. By the end of this module, you will be able to describe the melting process; identify the furnace types; state the advantages and disadvantages of each furnace type; explain how materials coming out of the furnace are adjusted; identify pouring methods; and state safety considerations. (0.1 CEU)

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