Contraction of Investment Cast H13 Tool Steel Real Time Measurement

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the dimensional changes and variability of investment cast H13 tool steel. An experimental apparatus has been developed to measure the dimensional changes during the casting process. Investigating the dynamics of mould expansion and alloy contraction during investment casting, it has been possible to determine in greater detail the contributions of the cast alloy and the mould to the final contraction of unconstrained castings. Contraction and dimensional variability of the final cast product is defined and experimental estimations of the contributions of each stage of investment casting are made. A technique for combining the variability of sequential stages is discussed. The measured contraction appears to be non-uniform and dependent on the position along the casting.