Thermal and mechanical behavior of Al-Si alloy cast using magnetic molding and lost foam processes

Magnetic molding technology is an original alternative process aimed at improving the metallurgical quality and dimensional tolerances of the final components that are currently produced using the lost foam process. The initial development of the magnetic molding process took place at the same time as the lost foam process, more than 30 years ago, but the magnetic molding process has never achieved the same level of industrial development. The purposes of this study are to introduce the magnetic molding process and to define its advantages and characteristics. The comparative results obtained with both the lost foam and the magnetic molding processes for aluminum casting are given. The main factors involved in the magnetic molding process are also discussed.