New AFS White Paper Details 6 Parameters for Cost-Effective Metal Casting Design

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., May 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Foundry Society (AFS)
announces the release of "Six Parameters to Cost-Effective Metal Casting
Design," a white paper intended to help component designers understand the
best combination of casting geometry, processes and alloys for cost-effective
design.

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"The geometric freedom of the metalcasting process allows multiple parts
assembled together to become a single cast component, enhancing the finished
component's material and mechanical properties and ultimately the end
product's effectiveness and productivity," said Jerry Call, AFS executive vice
president. "The key to success lies in a better understanding of the six key
parameters that affect the relationship among geometry, various casting alloys
and structure."

The six parameters are:
1. Fluid Life
2. Solidification Shrinkage
Type (eutectic, directional and equiaxed)
Volume (small, medium, large)
3. Slag/Dross Formation Tendency
4. Pouring Temperature
5. Section Modulus (stiffness of casting geometry)
6. Modulus of Elasticity (stiffness of alloy itself)

The white paper includes examples of how to apply these parameters to
component design; formulas for calculating stress, loads and stiffness; and a
chart illustrating the application of the various principles to a specific
part. The paper also lists resources for additional information. To obtain a
copy of the white paper, visit www.afsinc.org/whitepapers.

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., AFS is a not-for-profit technical and
management society that has existed since 1896 to provide and promote
knowledge and services that strengthen the metalcasting industry for the
ultimate benefit of its customers and society.

SOURCE American Foundry Society

Dave Krugman of AFS, 1-800-537-4237, ext. 286, dkrugman@afsinc.org