Inside Kaltharz 8500: The chemistry behind the solution

In modern foundries, performance alone is no longer enough. Industries demand efficiency, sustainability, and safety alongside high-quality casting results. For decades, classic furan resins have been the standard in no-bake binder systems, providing the strength and curing speed that foundries depend on. However, as the industry evolves and demands greater sustainability, safety, and efficiency, new solutions are needed. The emergence of hybrid binder systems offers precisely that – a smarter, cleaner way to achieve the performance foundries require.

At the heart of this transformation is the Kaltharz 8500 hybrid binder system – a solution rooted in chemistry.

From furan to hybrid – a shift in resin chemistry
Traditional furan resins have long been the backbone of no-bake binder systems. Their curing power comes from strong acid activators, often leading to high sulphur emissions, odour problems, and operator risks.

Hybrid resins like Kaltharz 8500 change the equation. Instead of relying solely on acids, they incorporate a special FA-phenolic polymer (PRFuran). This transfers curing ability directly into the resin structure, reducing the need for aggressive acids while maintaining strong curing performance.

The impact is significant. Strong acids are no longer mandatory, emissions are reduced, and curing becomes more controlled. Yet, performance is not sacrificed. Hybrid formulations are designed to achieve curing results comparable to classic furan resins containing 85–90% furfuryl alcohol (FA) where necessary.

Cleaner by design
The chemistry is engineered for low emissions, Free sulphuric acid <0.3% compared to up to 3% in classic systems and reduced sulphur content to as low as 5–8% for ductile iron and lower formaldehyde release, improving workplace conditions.

For further details contact DZanetech for Johannesburg on 082 809 7380 (Paul Malone) or Cape Town on 083 454 5465 (Johan Jooste) or for National 066 010 0999 (Zaid Syed) or Technical Support on 083 274 1657 (Koketso Mamogale) or visit www.dzanetech.co.za