Investigations of Model Multilayer Ceramic Casting Molds in a Raw State by Nondestructive Methods

This article presents the results of research on the use of modern nondestructive methods such as 3D scanning, thermography and computed tomography (CT) to assess the quality of multilayer ceramic molds. Tests were performed on spherical samples of multilayer ceramic molds in the raw state. Samples were made of molding sands composed of quartz and molochite powders, the alcoholic binder hydrolyzed ethyl silicate (ZKE) and an aqueous binder based on colloidal silica. Thickness measurements of spherical forms were made using a 3D scanner. Porosity measurements were made using CT. Additionally, thermography observations of the mold cooling process were made with controlled temperature and humidity. The results of temperature measurements of samples were compared with measurements of thickness and porosity. The practical goal was to determine the possibility of using thermography, 3D scanning and CT as a quick method for detecting mold defects by varying their thickness, porosity and cracks and for final verification of the ceramic molds’ condition before casting.