Simple Solutions That Work! Issue 12

Table 1 – Main performance enhancements in silicate cold box systems Graph 1 – Carbon content reduction in PUCB technology Graph 2 – BTX emissions in comparison 27 Continued on next page BACK TO BASICS • Effective thermal characteristics resulting in suitable dimensional accuracy in castings On the other hand, we can mention some of the most common drawbacks typically associated with PUCB binder systems: • They tend to be on the high-end as far as emissions are concerned: VOC’s and HAPs • High smoke and odor profile • Can develop higher level of condensables that can negatively affect duct work performance • Performance of the binder system is greatly altered when changes in the sand and conditions change o Tensile strength, usable life of the mix (bench life), core resistance to high humidity conditions are KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) that can fluctuate if some of the key variables change. - Sand pH and ADV (Acid Demand Value) - High ambient humidity and temperatures - High-Low sand temperatures These are not the PUCB systems your parents used to use In the last 5-7 years there has been a great effort in minimizing the drawbacks of the PUCB while at the same time augmenting the distinctive traits for the binder systems. All these advances in the PUCB technology have been driven by minimizing the EH&S impact of the resins inside & out of the facility as well as improving some of the limitations previously observed. The following are some examples of resins that have cast doubt on typical stereotypes of cold box resins. Environmental Concerns All the chemical binder systems based on organic materials (carbon based) will generate some level of emissions. Some sectors in the industry have started to look at the use of IOB’s. The environmental advantages of IOB’s systems are unquestionable as they address many of the HAPs and VOCs concerns currently faced by the industry. In spite of their unique environmental advantage, the industry has slowly adopted them for several reasons. These reasons include but are not limited to capital investment, limitations on its use; right now they are only available for light alloys such as aluminum applications. It is clear that while IOB’s systems may be a feasible alternative in