Application of cores and binders in metalcasting

This paper offers an overview of fundamentals and recent global developments of cores and binders used in metalcasting operations. The basic technical characteristics of salt and sand cores are provided along with organic and inorganic binder systems. A particular attention is paid to inorganic binders, receiving recently a renewed interest. The description of research and development efforts is accompanied by history and present status of commercial solutions used by the casting industry. The new development directions, aimed at meeting the growing complexity of the component design requirements and ever-more stringent environmental regulations, are emphasised.