Product Optimization Through Transition to Lost Wax Casting

Customer Background

  • Leading customer in the pump and valve industry with low-weight steel sand casting parts.
  • Annual volume of parts was low, making traditional steel sand casting economically unfeasible.

Initial Challenge

  • Existing steel sand casting process had high material wastage and extensive machining requirements.
  • Low production volumes increased per-unit costs beyond the customer’s target pricing.
  • Product surface quality and dimensional accuracy required enhancement to match functional needs.

AMSOLʼs Evaluation and Solution

  • Comprehensive review of the customerʼs drawings, production requirements, and cost targets.
  • Advised converting the parts from steel sand casting to the Lost Wax Casting (Investment Casting) process.
  • Justification for lost wax investment casting :
  •          o Superior dimensional accuracy and surface finish compared to sand casting.
  •          o Ability to produce near-net-shape parts reducing post-cast machining.
  •          o Feasible for small batch sizes with complex geometries.
  •          o Reduced raw material and machining costs.

Process Optimization

  • Redesigned parts to optimize for lost wax casting capabilities and minimize machining.
  • Developed wax patterns and ceramic shell molds per customer specifications.
  • Employed precise thermal processing to reduce defects and improve metallurgical properties.
  • Incorporated best practices in shell mold preparation to ensure consistency.

Benefits Achieved

  • Cost Reduction: Approximately 35% cost savings compared to original sand casting and machining processes.
  • Improved Product Quality: Enhanced surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and reduced internal casting defects.
  • Material Savings: Reduced machining scrap and optimized raw material usage.
  • Customer Pricing Satisfaction: Met customerʼs target price while maintaining performance and quality.
  • Feasibility for Low Volume Production: Enabled economical production for annual volume through lost wax process adaptability.

Business Impact

  • AMSOL strengthened the partnership by delivering a more cost-effective and higher quality casting solution.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction due to consistent quality and competitive pricing.
  • Established AMSOL as a proactive partner capable of technical consulting and product optimization.
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