Resource savings by optimising process conditions in foundries

摘要

Foundries are some of the major consumers of resources: power, metals, water, sand etc. To reduce CO_2 emission and save resources it is important to optimise foundry processes to reduce consumption of energy and raw materials without reducing productivity. The paper presents means to reduce energy consumption for melting and ventilation. It is shown that considerable savings are achievable even in efficient, modern production plants. Energy for melting can be reduced by improving yield. This will lead to reduced consumption of metal, sand, binders and other raw materials in the foundry. Properly designed gating systems will allow the foundry to lower the pouring temperature without affecting the quality of castings. Energy for ventilation can be reduced by optimising shielding around moulding lines and furnaces and by supplying fresh air correctly.