Application of CAD/CAE/CAM systems in permanent-mold casting improvement

Abstract

This paper presents the application of CAD/CAE/CAM systems at the improvement of the manufacturing the flotation balls for grinding ore. Flotation balls need to satisfy the appropriate requirements in terms of dimensional, chemical, mechanical and physical properties. These properties are directly related to technology of ball manufacturing, in this case-permanent-mold casting technology. Software tolls from the group of CAD/CAE/CAM systems were used for designing the casting parts, casting and feeding systems, mold and simulation of permanent-mold casting process. Based on results of casting process simulation the casting process in real industrial conditions was realized. After the casting process, testing of casting parts has been performed. The testing gave satisfactory results, so the presented methodology, based on CAD/CAE/CAM systems, is acceptable for manufacturing program in foundry.