As we all know, steel is the essential core metal that every building includes. But have you ever thought about how steel gets its defined form? Metal casting is the process that transforms the steel into its desired shape or form. The molten form of the metal that is steel is poured into the desired mold. It is then allowed to cool and harden to obtain the desired shape. Hence, many MS steel suppliers in Chennai use numerous techniques to cast the metal as per the requirements. So, there are two types of molds used by various industries, and they are reusable and expandable molds. The reusable molds can be used numerous times, and the mold won’t melt in the process, whereas the expandable molds can’t be reused. Hence, in this post, let us know the methods involved in metal casting.
Permanent mold casting:
This type of casting comes under reusable molds or permanent molds. It is a simple process where the molten steel is poured into the mold. Then it is allowed to solidify to obtain the desired shape. The only thing to remember in this process is that the mold must have a higher melting point than the molten steel that is poured. Hence, metals that have low melting points like aluminium, zinc, copper, and tin are preferred in permanent mold casting. In some cases other than the specified alloys, iron casting is also done in this mold. Many steel dealers heat the permanent mold before pouring the molten metal. The high temperature causes the molding to break if precautions are not taken.
Semi-permanent mold casting:
Another type of steel casting is semi-permanent mold casting that comes under reusable molds. This mold consists of two halves with a sand core in the center. The molten steel is poured into the mold cavity surrounding the sand core. Then, after cooling them for a while, the casting is removed with sand core leaving a passage in the casted product. This type of mold casting is suitable for alloys and metals because the mold can be reused. But ensure that the sand has to be changed each time for casting. Hence, the term is called semi-permanent mold casting. This type of casting is used to make valve bodies, torque converters, MS chequered plate, blowers, and many more.
Slush mold casting:
It is also a steel metal casting that comes under reusable molds. The slush mold casting is also suitable for alloys and metals to create a hollow cast in the center. The molten steel is poured into the mold cavity and allowed to cool. The steel hardens over time and starts to form a shell-like structure. Finally, the remaining liquid is poured out to form a hollow shell. This type of molding is used to make low-weight steel casting.
Similarly, the construction industry uses the SAIL TMT bar for building bridges, flyovers, and many more. In some places, Cast iron TMT bars are used to meet the requirements. Hence, depending upon needs and purpose, steels are fabricated by various casting methods.