What Types of Sand Are Used in Sand Casting?
In sand casting, the type of sand used significantly impacts the quality of the final product. Different sands provide unique benefits and are chosen based on the casting requirements.
Silica Sand: The Most Common Choice
Silica sand is the most widely used sand in sand casting due to its availability, low cost, and high melting point. It offers good thermal conductivity, which helps control the cooling rate of the molten metal, ensuring a more uniform solidification. Silica sand is also easily mouldable, providing a fine finish to the casting.
However, its drawback is that it can cause health risks due to silica dust inhalation. At Alliance Connect, we take stringent precautions to ensure a safe working environment while using silica sand to produce high-quality castings with excellent dimensional accuracy.
Alternative Sands: Chromite, Zircon, and Olivine
Other types of sand, such as chromite, zircon, and olivine, are also used in sand casting to address specific needs. Chromite sand has a high thermal expansion, which makes it ideal for casting ferrous metals. Zircon sand is valued for its low thermal expansion and high thermal conductivity, which helps reduce casting defects.
Olivine sand is used for its low silica content, providing a safer alternative in environments where silica exposure is a concern. At Alliance Connect, we utilise a variety of sands, choosing the most suitable type based on the specific requirements of each casting project to achieve optimal results