Date of Award
Summer 1994
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Advisor
Cariapa, Vikram
Second Advisor
Fournelle, Raymond
Third Advisor
Stango, Robert
Abstract
The last five years have seen vast increases in the use of Rapid Prototyping Systems. The casting industry, because of increasing world competition, alternative material advancements and an industry push towards reduced product lead times, would benefit from rapid prototyping. This thesis explores the feasibility of using patterns made by the stereolithography (SLA) process on a high speed sand molding system. Material propertie tests (tensile, compressive and hardness) were conducted on the stereolithography resin material in an environment similar to the actual industrial sand molding conditions. These were compared to properties of other more conventional pattern materials. Stereolithography patterns were made at Marquette University, mounted on a Disamatic sand molding machine at Briggs and Stratton Castings Division and ductile iron castings were made. The stereolithography patterns were periodically measured on a Coordinate Measuring Machine. Dimensional deviations that illustrated wear patterns were graphed and summarized. The feasibility and practicality of using stereolithography to create prototype patterns for high speed sand molding systems are discussed. In addition, it is concluded that stereolithography is viable for sand casting processes. But more development work is required to make the stereolithography process more reliable. At present, the output is highly dependent on the skill of the stereolithography operator.
Recommended Citation
Gottschalk, Kevin Robert, "Implementation of Stereolithography in Rapid Prototyping for Sand Castings" (1994). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 4688.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/4688