foundry practices
Good Foundry Practices for Quality and Cost Reduction – Part 2

By vr foundries on 21-June-2019

In today’s competitive casting industry, small process improvements can lead to major cost savings and quality gains. Good foundry practices are no longer optional. They directly impact scrap reduction, energy efficiency, foundry productivity, and long-term profitability.

At VR Foundries, a reliable casting manufacturer in Coimbatore, years of hands-on experience have helped refine proven foundry practices across moulding, melting, data control, training, and quality management. In this part, we share practical methods that help casting foundries improve consistency, reduce waste, and stay competitive in a demanding market.

Molding:

  • We have improved sand testing quality assurance. This is achieved by better control of sand systems that have reduced scrap considerably, resulting in higher mould quality. We have proven sand supplier testing capabilities. Our moulding practices over the years have improved in reducing things that could result in casting scrap.

Melting:

  • Here, at VR Foundries, we stick to the methodology “Melt cold, pour fast, pour hot”. This can considerably lower the energy consumption of melting energy, while at the same time, the quality of the melt is enhanced, thereby minimizing dysfunction. We totally preheat ladles instead of melting at high temperatures, and allow for high temperature drops during the process of transferring metal.

Scrap Reduction in Foundry:

  • Because we can identify scrap and determine its root cause in the right way, the analysis and reporting of scrap is made easy. We don’t group everything under the sun as ‘dirt’, ‘slag’, or ‘sand’ as causing scrap.

Data Collection:

  • Our R & D is based on technically sound data. We focus on the utility of the data rather than tracking and collecting useless data. More importantly, we use it in the right manner, as it provides a sense of direction for how our employees will utilize it in their everyday tasks.

Lighting:

  • Proper lighting and good housekeeping lead to casting quality improvement and a better workplace. For example, good lightning in key inspection areas actually resulted in money savings.

Training:

  • Our advanced training skills help improve the foundry's productivity and the skills of our employees. We help them maximize their internal as well as external skills. That is why they are better problem solvers, besides being technically sound and competent.

Profitability:

  • This, though, can be elusive; more often, our costing is competitive in the market, which has ensured success and profitability over the long haul.