Squeeze casting: A review and update

Squeeze casting is a pressurized solidification process whose conception in Russia dates back over a hundred years. It has been cited frequently since 1950 as a major production process in Soviet foundries. The process has recently been commercialized in Japan for automotive wheels; and considerable progress appears to have been made in the United States towards squeezecast diesel engine pistons. This paper reviews recent progress in developing and applying squeeze casting in these countries. Process parameters and details for ferrous and nonferrous applications are also covered, along with the highlights of a recently concluded experimental program for squeeze casting mortar shells from ductile iron.