Comparison of rapid casting solutions for lead and brass alloys using three-dimensional printing

Abstract The purpose of the present investigation is to study and compare the feasibility of decreasing the shell wall thickness for rapid casting solution of brass and lead alloys using three-dimensional printing (3DP) technology. Starting from the identification of components/benchmarks, technological prototypes have been produced at different shell thicknesses using lead and brass alloys. Measurements on a coordinate measuring machine helped in calculating the dimensional tolerances of the castings produced. Some important mechanical properties are also compared to verify the suitability of the castings and further results are supported by microstructure analysis. The study suggested that the production of sound casting for minimum wall thickness depends on pouring temperature and weight density. It has been observed that IT grades comparable to machining can be obtained with 3DP for lower pouring temperature alloys. Further feasibility of obtaining minimum shell thickness is more dependent on pouring temperature than weight density. Based on improved dimensional accuracy and microstructure analysis, the saving of costs up to 45.75 per cent and time up to 43 per cent can be achieved over the recommended one in the case of lead alloy for the selected benchmark/component. For brass alloy casting saving of costs and time up to 40.05 and 32.84 per cent, respectively, has been achieved.