Effect of vortex runner gating system on the mechanical strength of Al-12Si alloy castings

Abstract

Gating system design is an essential element in casting process which affects significantly the molten metal flow behavior, heat transfer and solidification of the melt. Optimum gating design will lead to a good quality of casting product. One of the major components in gating system is runner. This study was conducted to determine the effect of vortex runner diameter gating system on the mechanical strength of Al-12Si alloy casting. Simulation was conducted to study the behavior of the fluid flow and the results obtained showed close agreement with the results obtained from the experiment. Experimental results showed that the casting product with bigger vortex runner diameter gating system led to the improvement of average bending strength.