HPLT Castings
What is HPLT Casting?
As an alternative to traditional sand casting processes, MetalTek employs highly proprietary HPLT casting technologies. The technology is suitable for shaped parts, including those with internal structures.
The HPLT Casting Process
Similar to traditional sand castings in up-front tooling and concept, sand with a bonding material is packed around a pattern of the desired part to create a mold. The pattern is removed leaving a cavity in the mold. Using HPLT process technology, metal is introduced to the mold in a way that minimizes turbulence, avoiding inclusions and other casting defects that can develop using traditional casting processes. After solidification, the sand is broken away, gates and risers are removed, and the finished part remains.
Parts manufactured using the HPLT process can still feature intricate passageways gained by coring. This process can generate castings that are free of defects and is often specified by customers for applications that do not allow weld upgrade. MetalTek may recommend HPLT for customers who incur significant machining cost, especially where latent defects are discovered only after extensive machining investment.
Utilize HPLT Casting for Copper, Ferrous, or Nickel-Based Alloys
Products utilizing HPLT technologies can be produced using nearly any copper, ferrous, or nickel-based alloy:
- Bronze up to 14,500 lbs. (6,590 kg)
- Ferrous up to 4,400 lbs (2,000 kg)
- Nickel-based up to 6,600 lbs (3,000 kg)
Components utilizing the HPLT process at MetalTek are available from Meighs Castings and Carondelet.
