Influence of Structure on the Thermophisical Properties of Thin Walled Castings

This study addresses the effect of the cooling rate and of titanium additions on the thermophysical parameters of thin-walled compacted graphite iron (TWCGI) castings. Various molding materials were used (silica sand and insulating sand LDASC- Low-Density Alumina-Silicate Ceramic) to achieve different cooling rates. Different titanium additions were caused by various amount of Ferro Titanium. The research work was conducted for thin-walled iron castings with a 3-mm wall thickness. The tested material represents the occurrence of graphite in the shape of flakes (C and D types, according to the ISO Standard), nodules or compacted graphite with a percent of nodularity and different shape factor. Thermal conductivity has been determined by the laser flash technique in a temperature range of 22-600°C. The results show that the cooling rates together with the titanium content largely influence the graphite morphology and finally thermal conductivity of thin walled iron castings.