Determination of molding characteristics of Dindima river sand with Alkaleri clay as a binder

This work is aimed at determining the suitability of Dindima river sand with Alkaleri clay as a binder for foundry applications. Various standard test samples were produced from the mixtures containing 2 to 16% water with 10% and 12% clay addition respectively. The standard test specimens were used to determine molding properties: green/dry compression strengths, green/dry shear strengths, gas permeability, shatter index, flowability and compactibility. Other laboratory test carried out include determination of clay content of the sand, sieve analysis and bulk densities for each of the various mixtures. The mixtures that produce the optimum result for compatibility, flow ability and shatter index was used to produce cast machine component part such as grinding plate (ferrous alloy) and Peugeot automobile engine seat (non- ferrous alloy). The laboratory results showed that the optimum strength for both 10% and 12% clay additions is attained with the addition of 4% water. Other properties such as gas, permeability, shatter index flowability and compatibility attained their optimum values for both 10% and 1% clay with 6% water additions. In the process of our investigation, it was discovered that molding time has significant effect on the properties of the molding sand. Generally, Dindima river sand with Alkaleri clay was found to be suitable for foundry applications as the results of the required properties from both the laboratory tests and practical application are within the standard specifications for molding sand requirements.