Performance evaluation of metal mould for casting aluminium alloy (AA6063) of scientific products in national agency for science and engineering infrastructure

Abstract

The study investigated the major Causes of inconsistency in the cast results of the aluminium cast products from the metal moulds supplied by the then Hungarian Technical Partners to Scientific Equipment Development Institute, Minna. The metal moulds for different scientific products for Schools Scientific Laboratories were to achieve mass production of these products. The aluminium alloy A6063 ingot used were likewise imported. However, another consignment of the ingot used is produced in Nigeria by Nigerian Aluminium Extrusion Company, Lagos. Result of the products defects including shrinkage, blow holes, etc. remained the same, hence the need for this investigation work to ascertain the causes traceable to either moulds or the class or group of alloys. The outcome as shown could be that pouring speed or melting temperature etcetera are responsible for the inconsistency in obtaining acceptable cast products at different operations and with these moulds. A particular product mould gives inconsistent cast products and varying defects. This is applicable to all the available moulds supplied to the Institute at the same time.