Optimization of LC16K4 silicon brass to increase its fluidity in the process of ornamental casting

LC16K4 silicon brass is widely used in ornamental casting because of its good processing characteristics, beautiful golden color and the possibility to apply various decorative coatings. The paper studies the possibility to increase fluidity of LC16K4 silicon brass by varying its chemical composition according to GOST 17711-93. A vacuum suction method used for fluidity measurement revealed that this parameter changes when adding 0,1 wt.% of the alloying element (Zn, Si, Al) and that measurements show high repeatability. The experimental data were subjected to regression analysis. The effect of zinc and silicon on the silicon brass fluidity was quantitatively assessed, and an adequate mathematical model was built with a response surface of the fluidity function. The optimum melt overheating temperature was found that ensures the highest alloy fluidity with a minimum zinc loss. The results of this study may be useful in ornamental and industrial casting of LC16K4 silicon brass, as well as in other metallurgy and foundry areas. 

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