Foseco’s HARDCOTE SF800: An innovative coating for green sand moulds

In response to increasing demands for superior surface smoothness and precise detail, Foseco addresses the evolving needs of the industry, by the launch of HARDCOTE SF800, a new coating designed to improve the surface finish of castings produced using green sand moulds. The challenge of producing flawless castings without post-production rework is driving the need for new technological solutions that are cost effective, improve productivity, and increase customer satisfaction.

Traditionally, green sand moulds have not generally been coated. However, the growing need for an effective coating solution to improve cast surface quality has led to the development of HARDCOTE SF800. Specifically designed for high-speed production lines commonly used in the manufacture of grey and ductile iron castings, this innovative product integrates seamlessly into the production environment, enabling the surface coating of moulds without compromising productivity.

HARDCOTE SF800 green sand coatings provides an efficient, cost effective and environmentally responsible solution for improving the surface finish of green sand moulds. Unlike traditional refractory coatings which require drying after application or use solvents that evolve VOC’s, HARDCOTE SF800 is a newly developed water-based product. It is applied as a fine spray to the green sand mould surface and rapidly forms a protective layer that does not require drying and therefore does not disrupt the production process.

HARDCOTE SF800 is a water-based coating especially designed for green sand mould application. It helps to minimise mould erosions and improves the metal flow through thin castings. Typical defects such as metal penetration are suppressed, resulting in a smooth and burn-on free casting surface. The product does not require drying prior to casting.

In comparison, traditional systems based on phenolic resin dissolved in solvents present environmental concerns and hazardous working conditions. These systems typically require post-application drying, which can lead to scabbing and loss of productivity.

Foseco’s HARDCOTE SF800 provides an efficient, cost effective and environmentally responsible solution for improving the surface finish of green sand moulds.

HARDCOTE SF800 is a surface hardener and protective coating that protects against erosion, burn-on and metal penetration defects while forming a carbon-based film to prevent sand adhesion to the casting surface and improving mould strip. It therefore reduces cleaning, rework, blasting and improves the overall quality of castings.

With effortless application HARDCOTE SF800 is applied by spray gun, ideally by an automatic/robotic
system, to ensure consistency, but manual application is also possible. No costly equipment investment or drying ovens is needed.

Rapid absorption takes place because a thin layer (50 to 250 microns) is applied and it is quickly absorbed into the green sand surface, ensuring no disruption to the casting process or reduction of productivity.

The versatility of application is highlighted because HARDCOTE SF800 can be used for in various green sand applications, including all types of iron, aluminium, and bronze castings, improving surface finish on components such as transmission housings, brake drums, valve bodies, differential housings, flywheels, and engine blocks.

For more information contact Foseco on TEL: 011 903 9500 or visit www.foseco.com