EPSRC logo

Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: EP/C509722/1
Title: Novel Core Design For Investment Casting
Principal Investigator: Blackburn, Professor S
Other Investigators:
Yuan, Dr C
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department: IRC in Materials Processing
Organisation: University of Birmingham
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 February 2005 Ends: 31 January 2007 Value (£): 260,024
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Materials Processing Materials testing & eng.
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Manufacturing
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
The coring of investment casting components has been proven to be the most effective method of extending alloy properties in the higher temperature now required by gas turbine engines. Current silica-bearing core systems are limited to casting temperatures below 1550 C due to removal of reacti% elements from the alloy and poor creep properties. The greatest challenge of non-silica core development is to reconcile the need for better thermal shock and creep resistance at high temperature with the need to have a weak material during solidification of metal to prevent blade/vane recrystallisation and to aid in core removal.The aim of this project is to develop a core system which can be used at elevated casting temperatures. This tailored composition and microstructural design uses a reaction sintered system in which the require phase is developed during casting. Microcracking is induced on cooling which results in k of mechanical strength of the core. This will reduce the thermal stress applied on the alloy whilst the metal solidifies, and in turn aid leachability of the refractory materials. An extensive experimental programme will prove the concept.The development of an alternative high temperature core will enhance the ability of the industry to produce high quality components at reduces scrap rates.
Key Findings
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
Potential use in non-academic contexts
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
Impacts
Description This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
Summary
Date Materialised
Sectors submitted by the Researcher
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
Project URL:  
Further Information:  
Organisation Website: http://www.bham.ac.uk