Introduction
Experimental Method
State-of-the-Art Pouring Procedure
Tapering of the Down-Sprue
Extended Runner
Centrifugal Slag Trap
Vortex Gate
The Tangential (Flush) Filter and Terminal Spin Trap
The Tangential (Flush) Filter and Terminal Spin Trap Made from Preformed Refractory Tubes
Trident Gate
Conclusions
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Computer modeling confirmed the effectiveness of gating systems to control the velocity and surface turbulence of the metal entering the mold cavity (but it is acknowledged that the simulations could not include the presence of air bubbles in the metal flow).
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Filling systems molded to follow the shape of the falling stream (particularly the naturally pressured system) are successful to reduce the conditions for forming entrainment defects.
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The filling system constructed from preformed refractory tubes performed poorly.
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The various vortex systems were all found to perform poorly for different reasons.
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The various systems using (1) naturally pressurized channel designs; (2) filters placed flush on runners to divert bubbles; and (3) sufficiently large spin traps on the ends of runners performed excellently. For the first time, it seems that techniques are now available for the production of defect-free castings.