What Causes a Mold Penetration Defect? And What Prevents It?

Q: What is the science behind penetration defects?  I’ve had it explained to me in the past, but those explanations always seem to be oversimplified.  I’d like to know the mechanics of how penetration happens, and how to prevent it.  

A: Penetration is among the more common defects discovered on castings.  In fact, the commonness of such defects encountered by so many foundries probably explains the “oversimplified” responses you often receive.  Presumably, you’ve been told that gaps within the mold are responsible for the occurrence of penetration, and that’s actually quite true.  However, there probably are very few people who properly understand why these gaps form, or how to prevent them. 

Mold coatings are a well-known preventative measure to address penetration defects.  Undoubtedly, you’ve heard this before.  Still, it’s critical to recognize what makes a good coating.  Rheology (a technical term used by researchers) explains what separates and distinguishes a good coating from the others.  In short, rheology describes the measurement / determination of a liquid / solid matter’s flowability.

Now, it’s important to ask, “What is flowability?” This is a term that characterizes the effects of deformation on the liquid, as well as solid components.  The deformation of matter is essentially a reaction at the impact of a specific force.  Surely this all makes sense, right?  (I’m kidding, of course.)

However, just know this, the effects of poor rheology will include insufficient layer thickness, teardrops, runs, prolonged handling times, inhomogeneity, and problems with core prints.  Ultimately, it’s very important to trust a coating supplier with strong Research & Development and proven Technical Services.  That way, you’ll ensure you’re receiving a coating with the ideal rheology characteristics to meet your requirements. 

Now, let’s discuss the science behind a penetration defect. 

Penetrations: Defect Pattern & Causes

Fundamental causes for real (mechanical/physical) penetration are metallostatic pressure, dynamic pressure during casting, and crystallization pressure during solidification.

Penetration can thus occur as a function of the following influence factors:
• The grain size of the mold material is too large and the grain particle size distribution is too broad;
• The proportions of binder are too low. The proportion of materials that form lustrous carbon is too low
• Unfavorable chemical composition of the casting material in combination with casting temperatures and metallostatic pressure that are too high;
• Inadequate and uneven compaction of the molds or cores;
• Inadequate gating system and therefore excessive overheating of molds and core components.

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