“Process and production of mechanical parts through investment casting made by 17-4 PH steel alloy did allow us first to gain a weight saving, second to obtain a structural behavior with higher efficiency, as well as much better final quality” Franco Cevolini, CRP Technology’s Chairman, explains.
The perfect synergy between our partner and CRP technical offices has always facilitated co-design of the component, obtaining an excellent mechanical performance, respecting the foundry requirements.
As soon as the 3D model is produced, the mechanical-structural quality is checked through different sessions of structural calculation: tests are made with advanced workstations in order to check reaction at various load cases, simulating real stress situations from the track.

After validation from our constructor partner’s engineers, CRP has commenced the productive cycle involving its internal Rapid Prototyping department.

After full inspection, these sintered PS lost patterns are used for the casting process. The CNC (Continuous Numerical Control) department completes the finishing and the inspection tests on the parts, including NDT (Non Destructive Test) inspection and 3D tests (ISO 9001:2000 certified), allowing the uprights to be fully finished within reduced timescales for car building.

 

17 4PH investment casting & CNC machining
Upright for ALMS made by investment casting with 17 4PH and disposable SLS Rapid Prototyping pattern. Box-type geometry with TIG welded cast patches.
Post-casting treatments: H.I.P. (Hot Isostatic Pressing), STA H1025.
CNC machining and 3D inspection only where required.
Characteristics: Complex design to increase part performance. High mechanical properties and reliability.

 

For further details please read the case studies .