Novel Approach to Thermal Processing Development for Precision Sand Casting Process (PSCP) of Aluminum Engine Blocks

The latest generation of high-performance engine blocks are produced with the precision sand casting process (PSCP). Their enhanced mechanical properties are provided by an integrated cast iron chill in the bulkhead section and thus result in large variations in secondary dendrite arm spacing (λ2) throughout the whole casting, providing unique challenges in both heat treat (T7 temper) development and compliance to the CQI-9 protocol. This …