Simulation-Assisted Analysis of Sand Casting Distribution Systems for Teaching Purposes

In Engineering Schools, labs for teaching forming processes by means of material conservation methods are generally equipped with the appropriate equipment and tools to exemplify the theory received in class. However, the use of simulation techniques to complement the formation is not usually widely extended, since their learning is not usually trivial.One of the material conservation forming processes is sand casting. This process is of great educational significance, since the theory that defines it sets the basis for understanding other related moulding processes. In this context, the use of simulations of the moulding process allows the visualization of practical examples, helping to explain more clearly the theoretical information explained in class.Therefore, in this research a simulation assisted analysis has been developed using the Inspire Cast by Altair software, of teaching parts made in sand casting. First of all, students have been shown by means of simulations, the defects that can be originated in a part manufactured by sand casting. The study has been carried out by redesigning the risers involved in the distribution system of the process, by means of the Chvorinov's rule.Finally, a series of conclusions have been achieved, among which the following one stands out: if the functional performance of the part manufactured by sand casting is to be taken into account, the cooling modulus criterion must be selected for the design of the riser. Although, in principle, the material required for moulding is much larger, the defects generated in the part will be considerably reduced.