3d printing sand casting patterns

[DeltaCharlie]

Ran across an interesting youtube video by Roberson Foundry. Instead of using a split pattern he used one 1/2 pattern and a full pattern. He rammed up the 1/2 pattern in the drag then pulled it out and then inserted the full into the drag to do the cope on top.

Because 3D printing can make very accurate patterns this is doable and for symmetric parts this seems like an interesting option.

 

[vtcnc]

Delta Charlie - D.C - Dale ? I will let you guess what my real last name is ;-)

Chip?


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[DeltaCharlie]

Just poured another part and it looks like it's usable. I made a few mistakes but learning a lot. I believe I need to come up with a bottom that I can screw in place on the drag when ramming in the sand as there was a bit bump (not flush) when I got done ramming up the cope - think there was some movement .

Anyhow was a bit surprised at how much charring took place on the green sand. Not sure what's burning, organics in the bentonite clay?

Look forward to the next one, maybe a proper cast aluminum ram. Trying to figure out how to design it in FreeCAD.