Precision Investment Casting (PIC) is often used to make metal parts as diverse as intricate components for airplane engines to large steel valves for chemical plants. Grace’s LUDOX® colloidal silica serves two functions in the PIC process: as the binder and as the fluid to suspend other slurry ingredients.
With LUDOX® colloidal silica, both particle size and particle size distribution are tailored by carefully controlling the manufacturing process. This allows the particle size distributions of LUDOX® colloidal silicas to be very narrow when compared to most competitive grades with the same average particle size. The uniformity of particle size and distribution provides our customers with enhanced consistency and control of their processes.
When the PIC process is undertaken using colloidal silica, the silica material serves the crucial function of being the ceramic binder that bonds to the refractory grain and forms a strong, cohesive casting.
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This ensures that the mold maintains its shape and integrity during the casting process. This results in high-dimensional accuracy and smooth surface finishes of the final cast product.
Reduces the risk of cracking and improves the overall durability and quality of the casting.
Unlike ethyl-silicate used in some PIC processes, LUDOX® colloidal silica contains no VOCs.
LUDOX® colloidal silica is highly compatible with a variety of refractory grains such as fused silica, zircon, alumina, etc., allowing it to be used effectively in a wide range of investment casting applications.
We offer a wide range of grades suitable to match the demand of specific casting applications and processes, such as desired mold strength, drying time, surface finish, and compatibility with different refractory grains. Fill out the form to download the brochure to learn more about LUDOX® colloidal silica for PIC and request to speak to an expert.
