Implementation experience of graphitizing modification technology for cupola cast iron using carbon‑silicon carbide materials of UKKS grades in foundry no. 1 OJSC “MTW

Abstract

This article briefly presents the practical results obtained from pilot industrial trials aimed at implementing a graphitizing modification technology for cupola cast iron using carbon–silicon carbide materials (UKKS grades) manufactured by “NPF AMYUS” (Moscow, Russia). The implementation was carried out in the production process of foundry no. 1 at OJSC “MTW” (Minsk, Belarus), replacing barium‑containing graphitizing modifiers (Sibar, FeSi65Ba4, and others) with the goal of eliminating casting defects such as chill spots. The article highlights the obtained results, demonstrating the high technological efficiency of carbon–silicon carbide UKKS materials on various pouring lines, adapted to the specific technological and logistical features of the processes. The trials showed improved durability (“survivability”) of the graphitizing modification, as well as a significant reduction in chill‑related casting defects compared to the existing technologies.

Keywords

• carbon‑silicon carbide blend
• gray cast iron with flake graphite
• improved durability of graphitizing modification
• significant increase in graphite nucleation
• reduction in undercooling and cast iron chill tendency
• decrease in chill defects
• improved casting quality
• reduction in casting process labor intensity
• significant cost reduction in castings production