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2 0 1 3<br />
www.indutherm.de<br />
Blue Power.<br />
<strong>Top</strong> <strong>Class</strong> <strong>Casting</strong> <strong>Technology</strong>
Indutherm – your partner for<br />
innovative metal casting solutions<br />
2<br />
Metal casting technology is our world. From<br />
the very beginning we have been exclusively<br />
focused on the development and<br />
construction of melting and casting systems<br />
and can offer a wide range of machines for<br />
many different purposes.<br />
Capability based on experience and<br />
research<br />
We generally develop and test our systems in<br />
close collaboration with users in a wide range<br />
of industries.<br />
foundries<br />
jewellery industry<br />
rapid prototyping<br />
automotive and<br />
component industries<br />
aircraft industry<br />
medical and dental<br />
technologies<br />
mould designers<br />
artists<br />
The conflict between the varying requirements<br />
and areas of use has been fundamental to<br />
our expertise. However, numerous machines<br />
have also resulted from research projects that<br />
we frequently carry out in conjunction with<br />
well-known research partners.<br />
All of our clients can take advantage of this<br />
expertise, in the form of advanced technology<br />
and competent consulting and support. We<br />
would be happy to meet up with you sometime<br />
at one of the international casting symposiums<br />
that we frequently participate in and where we<br />
give talks on different casting subjects.<br />
Cost-effectiveness through quality<br />
The perfect result in the least time and for the<br />
least cost<br />
Three factors are critical to cost-effective casting:<br />
• speed and, ideally, no costly testing<br />
for high quality casting results<br />
• casting processes that can be replicated at<br />
any time<br />
• the higher the casting quality, the less postproduction<br />
work there is and the lower the<br />
costs are.<br />
This is why our motto is "Cost-effectiveness<br />
through quality" – and this is reflected in every<br />
detail in the construction of our machines.
This example of extremely filigree casting demonstrates obviously the possibilities of our technology.<br />
Energy efficiency that goes that bit<br />
further<br />
Anyone who relies on high performance values<br />
alone when manufacturing casting machines<br />
is usually thinking too narrowly. What matters<br />
most is what is ultimately accomplished with<br />
each kilowatt hour consumed. The induction<br />
generators and inductors in our casting and<br />
melting machines are designed with the<br />
highest possible level of effectiveness in mind.<br />
Efficient insulation ensures that the induction<br />
generated loses as little energy as possible for<br />
fast melting of the metal. The thermal insulation<br />
around the inductor and crucible effectively<br />
reduces heat radiation; the melting<br />
chamber acts like a Faraday cage to prevent<br />
the radiation of electromagnetic waves.<br />
The infused stainless steel coolant water lines<br />
further improve the shielding effect. With open<br />
melting machines that cannot use the 'cage<br />
effect', the radiation loss is reduced almost as<br />
effectively through the use of ring-shaped<br />
ferrites – and at the same time the electrosmog<br />
load is drastically reduced.<br />
Less energy for cooling<br />
Efficient energy use also reduces energy<br />
consumption for water re-cooling in the<br />
machine and the potential need for air-conditioning<br />
in the foundry. Moreover, a smaller<br />
installed load is sufficient.<br />
Indutherm machines save energy with<br />
peripheral devices too<br />
Thanks to the flask lift you can use flasks with<br />
no flange, offering you two ways to save<br />
money: flangeless flasks are much cheaper<br />
and require less space in your oven. In other<br />
words: with the same energy consumption<br />
you can burn ~50% more flasks – or you can<br />
work with a smaller oven.<br />
The Indutherm<br />
concept for energy<br />
efficient melting<br />
High level of efficiency<br />
for generators and inductors<br />
+<br />
Optimised use<br />
of induction power<br />
+<br />
Effective insulation<br />
against heat radiation<br />
= High melting performance<br />
with reduced power<br />
consumption<br />
flasks with flange<br />
flasks without flange<br />
3
Always in focus: the most economical<br />
solution for your demands.<br />
Easy to service:<br />
replacing the generator by opening only<br />
two screws<br />
Durable and reliable<br />
It’s important that your production<br />
equipment runs perfectly for many years from<br />
day one. Our internal quality management<br />
ensures high standards from the first screw<br />
to the last. In the event of revisions, updates<br />
or any kind of problem, we create detailed<br />
documentation for each machine, with<br />
pictures, software backups and more.<br />
Easy to service<br />
Simple replacement of all major components<br />
guarantees fast and easy servicing, minimises<br />
the risk of lengthy production interruptions<br />
and ensures long term reliability. All<br />
INDUTHERM machines with an induction<br />
generator may be equipped with a GSM<br />
modem for remote service. This enables us<br />
to connect us directly to the machine<br />
• for a regular check-up of the machine<br />
• for fast service in the event of malfunctions<br />
• for detailed help and advice with<br />
complicated casting procedures<br />
• for software updates.<br />
Simple replacement of all important components<br />
guarantees fast and easy servicing,<br />
minimises the risk of lengthy production<br />
interruptions and ensures long term<br />
reliability.<br />
Every product is only as good as the<br />
customer service supporting it.<br />
Our sales and service partners provide<br />
professional support around the world. You<br />
can find the dealer for your country on our<br />
website www.indutherm.de, in the<br />
"Company" section.<br />
■ Indutherm distribution<br />
4
More than just casting machines<br />
Original Indutherm consumables: Quality<br />
pays off!<br />
Our own high quality consumables, such as<br />
crucibles, dies or sealing rods, are specially<br />
developed for Indutherm machines. Only<br />
using original Indutherm consumables makes<br />
sense for a number of reasons:<br />
1. Compact graphite ensures greater<br />
durability for crucibles and sealing rods<br />
2. Higher quality casting results<br />
• Less contamination from extraneous<br />
material like lead etc<br />
• Less use of graphite in alloys and casts<br />
• Less gas porosity => reduced postproduction<br />
costs, less material loss<br />
3. Less stress for the casting machines<br />
• Our crucibles have lower electrical<br />
resistance, meaning that there is less<br />
stress on the inductor, condenser<br />
assembly, transformer and generator –<br />
resulting in greater durability for these<br />
components<br />
• Less power consumption<br />
4. An extra two years of warranty for free if you<br />
only use original Indutherm consumables.<br />
<strong>Casting</strong> simulation: know what you’re doing<br />
before you do it!<br />
Professional computer simulation of the<br />
casting process offers you peace of mind<br />
before embarking on complicated casting jobs:<br />
instead of tedious and costly failures, we can<br />
determine all the relevant parameters<br />
beforehand – mould construction, positioning<br />
of sprues, temperature, pressure relationships<br />
– based on your CAD data<br />
The casting process from start to finish from a<br />
single supplier – and perfectly tuned to your<br />
needs<br />
We offer not only perfectly tuned casting<br />
machines, but also competent consultation in<br />
the various moulding, casting and finishing<br />
processes.<br />
Moreover we can support you in planning and<br />
equipping your complete foundry.<br />
5
Your project...<br />
aluminium,<br />
copper,<br />
brass, zinc,<br />
gold, silver<br />
casting<br />
• rapid Prototyping<br />
• automotive parts<br />
• aerospace components<br />
• other technical parts<br />
• jewellery<br />
• arts, handicraft, models<br />
steel,<br />
titanium,<br />
platinum,<br />
palladium<br />
casting<br />
• medical and dental technology<br />
• technical parts<br />
• metallurgic R & D<br />
• moulds<br />
• jewellery<br />
melting and<br />
pouring<br />
of different<br />
metals<br />
• for metals developing a lot of<br />
smoke and oxides during<br />
melting<br />
• for large quantities of metal<br />
(recycling or own alloys)<br />
• for casting large,<br />
heavy components<br />
production of<br />
semi-finished<br />
material<br />
• wires and tubes<br />
• strips, sheet and bars<br />
• granules<br />
• micro granules
Our solution...<br />
MC series<br />
for small parts, small<br />
batches and quick casts<br />
8<br />
Vacuum Pressure <strong>Casting</strong> Machines<br />
MC 60 and VC series<br />
• two chamber differential pressure system (VC series)<br />
• casting into flasks/investment molds, also<br />
suited for shell casting<br />
• up to 12,000 ccm crucible volume<br />
VTC series<br />
for all kind of metals<br />
VC series<br />
for jewellery and other<br />
fine parts<br />
14<br />
18<br />
MC series and VTC series<br />
• vacuum pressure casting systems<br />
• one or two chamber differential pressure systems<br />
• tilting casting principle<br />
• casting into flasks/investment molds or into ingot molds<br />
High Temperature Melting Machines<br />
MU 100 C / MU 200 C, MUV 100 C / MUV200 C and TF 2000 C / TF 4000 C<br />
• for hand pouring into flasks or shell molds (MU / MUV)<br />
• or for tilting pouring into flasks, shell molds or ingot molds (TF)<br />
VC series<br />
for large parts<br />
MU / MUV series<br />
for melting and<br />
handpouring<br />
TF series<br />
for melting and casting<br />
large quantities<br />
24<br />
26<br />
28<br />
Open Melting Machines and Tilting Furnaces,<br />
MU and TF series<br />
• MU/MUV series for hand pouring into flasks or<br />
ingot molds<br />
• TF series for tilting pouring into flasks, shell molds<br />
or ingot molds, up to 12,000 ccm crucible volume<br />
MU / MUV C series<br />
TF C series<br />
for high temperature<br />
melting<br />
recycling and<br />
ingot casting<br />
30<br />
32<br />
Continuous <strong>Casting</strong> Machines CC series<br />
Granulating Units GU series<br />
Sintering Units SU series<br />
• continuous casting machines also available as VCC versions with<br />
vacuum function for de-gassing of the metal and reduced oxidation<br />
• GU units for the productions of granules or micro granules<br />
• SU units for the productions of multicolour rings<br />
(diffusion bonding)<br />
CC series<br />
for semi-finished<br />
products<br />
granulating<br />
sintering<br />
34<br />
36<br />
38
MC 15+ and MC 60 tabletop casting machines<br />
The MC 15+<br />
is designed…<br />
• for the very fast and<br />
uncomplicated<br />
casting of single<br />
models or small trees<br />
in high quality<br />
• for casting of every<br />
metal, even steel<br />
or platinum<br />
1|<br />
The MC 60<br />
is ideal…<br />
• for jewellery casting in<br />
gold or silver<br />
• for technical small series<br />
casting in aluminium,<br />
copper and other metals<br />
2|<br />
3|<br />
The compact MC series was developed to<br />
provide jewellery designers, goldsmiths, development<br />
departments and dental laboratories<br />
with a cheap yet highly professional casting<br />
machine. Our most important aims were:<br />
extremely short processing time from mould<br />
manufacturing to completed casting; simple,<br />
safe operation; high quality and, above all,<br />
reproducible casting results; and low<br />
operating costs. The overwhelming global<br />
success of the MC series in numerous<br />
industries – including some not originally<br />
envisaged – emphatically confirms the MC<br />
concept.<br />
Ingeniously simple = simply ingenious<br />
Handling the mini<br />
casting system is also extremely simple:<br />
1| Fill in the material and heat up.<br />
2| Take the flask from oven and insert into the<br />
machine. The device itself looks after all<br />
additional functions – until we get to the stroke<br />
of genius:<br />
3| Pouring off takes place using a 90° rotation<br />
of the casting unit. After pouring, the MC 15+<br />
automatically switches to overpressure in order<br />
to optimise the mould filling even for delicate<br />
parts.<br />
After pouring, the MC series automatically<br />
switch to overpressure in<br />
order to optimise the mould filling<br />
even for delicate parts.<br />
Alternatively it is also possible to<br />
keep the vacuum (example shows<br />
MC 15+).<br />
With the MC machines, you can easily cast by<br />
hand from the crucible to your mould and<br />
feel what you are doing – just as it has been<br />
done for thousands of years. So that this<br />
works consistently and safely, the entire<br />
melting/casting unit is tilted together<br />
through a 90 degree angle. For perfect<br />
balance and to make do with as few moving<br />
parts as possible, almost the whole machine<br />
moves during tilting: being cylindrical in<br />
design, the whole moving section rotates as<br />
if in a halfpipe – ingeniously simple and<br />
stylishly designed on high-quality rollers.<br />
However, unlike manual casting, the process<br />
takes place in an enclosed chamber under a<br />
vacuum or inert gas atmosphere, to prevent<br />
air pockets and oxidation. You can check the<br />
melting and pouring-off process through the<br />
sight glass.<br />
8
NEW<br />
Why did we not just make one of the tried<br />
and tested machines in the VC range smaller?<br />
There are actually machines on the market in<br />
which the construction principle of larger<br />
machines has been miniaturised, and which<br />
therefore work with a sealing rod system. We<br />
prefer the tilting casting system for the<br />
following reasons:<br />
• Small crucibles with sealing rods are hard to<br />
fill. Generally only granulate or some other<br />
ground material can be poured in; the<br />
sealing rod gets in the way with larger<br />
pieces such as manufacturing residues,<br />
sprue etc.<br />
• Naturally the pouring-off opening is also very<br />
small with small crucibles. This makes viscous<br />
alloys hard to pour out, leading to the formation<br />
of incrustations and consequently leakage.<br />
This makes the service lives of expensive<br />
consumables extremely short. The crucibles in<br />
our MC machines are not only cheaper – they<br />
can also be used for a substantially longer<br />
time. Pouring off into the mould is extremely<br />
simple.<br />
• The number of mechanically moving parts<br />
and seals – so all wearing parts – is substantially<br />
smaller with our tilting principle,<br />
reducing your running costs.<br />
• The viewing glass and open design enable<br />
you to keep an eye on the melting and<br />
casting process and control it perfectly.<br />
MC 15+, the fast all-rounder for any<br />
metal<br />
• For individual pieces or multiple small<br />
jewellery parts<br />
• Minimum material use for the sprue<br />
• Shortest combustion times for the flask<br />
in the oven – approx. 1 hr with a speed<br />
investment material<br />
• With graphite crucible for gold and silver;<br />
ceramic crucible for platinum, palladium,<br />
steel<br />
• Maximum temperature 2,000°C.<br />
MC 60, the larger capacity version for<br />
gold and silver casting<br />
• Largely the same technology as with the<br />
MC 15+, but designed for a temperature<br />
range up to 1,300°C<br />
• Hence larger capacity for gold and silver<br />
casting<br />
• For flasks up to 80 mm x 120 mm,<br />
optionally up to 100 mm x 120 mm.<br />
A significant factor for the<br />
economic efficiency is the low<br />
quantity of metal that must be<br />
calculated for button.<br />
9
MC 20 V and MC 100 V: program controlled<br />
machines featuring vibration technology<br />
These machines are<br />
designed for…<br />
• for difficult casts in the<br />
jewellery and technical<br />
sectors<br />
• for all metals, even steel,<br />
palladium and platinum<br />
MC 20 V and MC 100 V are designed based<br />
on the same tilting principle as the MC<br />
machines described above. However they are<br />
systematically designed for intricate casting<br />
projects in continuous operation in large<br />
foundries.<br />
Vibration technology for excellent<br />
casting quality<br />
The two MC machines with the “V” suffix are<br />
equipped with the Indutherm vibration<br />
system. Vibration switched on directly after<br />
casting is a decisive factor in enhancing<br />
mould filling with very filigree parts. It<br />
prevents porosity, ensures a finer grain structure<br />
and allows greater more constant<br />
density. The post-processing requirement is<br />
much lower. Parts also have measurably<br />
higher elasticity and this increases the scope<br />
for further processing significantly.<br />
Vibration technology is a compelling alternative<br />
to the frequently used and relatively delicate<br />
centrifugal systems, especially when<br />
casting platinum or palladium.<br />
You can find more information on page 18/19.<br />
Full text LCD display for fine adjustment<br />
and serial programming<br />
Temperatures up to 2000°C are precisely<br />
measured by an optical pyrometer.<br />
Place the flask in position<br />
The new operating system features individual<br />
setting of parameters to achieve maximum<br />
performance from every pattern mould and<br />
every alloy. Thanks to the transparent layout<br />
of the menu structure and full text display, all<br />
settings are quick and easy to program. Of<br />
course all process parameters can be saved<br />
for repeated castings.<br />
10
tabletop casting<br />
MC 20 V or MC 100 V? It’s only a<br />
question of the required capacity ...<br />
<strong>Casting</strong> quality, maximum temperature, operation<br />
and equipment levels are in fact identical.<br />
Even the space requirements differ only in<br />
minor points – both machines are designed<br />
as bench-top models. Due to the greater<br />
height we recommend a height-adjustable<br />
bench or a standalone version with a floor<br />
cupboard. The decisive differences are the<br />
capacity of the crucible volume and flask size.<br />
The MC 20 V is suited for up to 100 g Au 18ct<br />
or 200 g Pt, the MC 100 V for up to 200 g Au<br />
18 ct or 500 g Pt. The MC 100 V also offers<br />
very short process times. The larger flasks on<br />
the MC 100 V require a slightly longer firing<br />
time in the furnace.<br />
As always, we offer you competent consulting<br />
to achieve the best solution for you.<br />
Main benefits<br />
• Very simple and safe to operate, short<br />
training periods<br />
• Excellent price-performance ratio<br />
• Induction generator reaches melting<br />
temperature rapidly<br />
• Thorough melt mixing due to low-frequency<br />
induction tuning<br />
• Melting under a vacuum or inert gas<br />
(degassing the melt prevents oxidation)<br />
• Excellent mould filling at pressures up to<br />
3 bar (vacuum casting also available)<br />
• Low material consumption<br />
Pd<br />
Pt<br />
The MC 100 V as standalone<br />
version. The floor base offers<br />
enough space to accommodate<br />
accessories, for example<br />
the vacuum pump.<br />
11
The MC series at a glance<br />
A complete casting system covering just a few square feet<br />
1) Vacuum investment machine for bubble-free mixing of the investment compound and<br />
filling of the flask. The integrated vibrator eliminates any possible air bubbles.<br />
2) The 1,100°C furnace for melting out the wax and burning out the form,<br />
temperature pre-selection, high-quality insulation,<br />
furnace interior size: 228 x 165 x 228 (h) mm<br />
3) Sand blasting cabinet for easy removal of plaster:<br />
air pressure requirement: 270 l/min at 10 bar, 150 l/min at 5 bar,<br />
connection for suction system, foot switch for adjusting pressure<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
temperature max.<br />
capacity<br />
casting volume<br />
for use of flasks<br />
handling+control<br />
control panel<br />
automatic vacuum function<br />
automatic overpressure function<br />
casting also under vacuum only<br />
vacuum or overpressure after casting<br />
function washing by inert gas<br />
vibration system<br />
supply: cooling water,<br />
inert gas argon or nitrogen<br />
temperature measurement/control<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232 interface, diagnostic system<br />
GSM-modem for remote service<br />
accessories<br />
vacuum investment mixer Indumix 2<br />
furnace, 1,100°C<br />
sand blasting cabinet<br />
vacuum pump<br />
floor unit<br />
12
MC 15+<br />
MC 60<br />
MC 20 V<br />
MC 100 V<br />
3.5 kW 230 V single phase<br />
2000° C<br />
3.5 kW 230 V single phase<br />
1300° C<br />
3.5 kW 230 V single phase<br />
2000° C<br />
8 kW 3x400 V<br />
2000° C<br />
100 g Au 18 ct 450 g Au 18 ct 100 g Au 18 ct 450 g Au 18 ct<br />
110 g steel/200 g Pt 300 g Ag 935 110 g steel/200 g Pt 250 g steel 500 g Pt<br />
up to ø 30/50/65/80 mm x 80 mm h ø 100 mm x 120 mm h up to ø 30/50/65/80 mm x 80 mm h up to ø 80/100 mm x 120 mm h<br />
digital display digital display by LCD-Display, full text readout by LCD-Display, full text readout<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
– – ■ ■<br />
■ –1 up to +2 bar ■ –1 up to +2 bar ■ –1 up to +3 bar ■ –1 up to +3 bar<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
– – ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
■ up to 1,300°C o up to 1,600°C ■ up to 1,300°C ■ up to 2,000°C ■ up to 2,000°C<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■ ■<br />
o o o o<br />
o o o o<br />
o o o o<br />
o (min. 8m 3 /h) o (min. 8m 3 /h) o (min. 8m 3 /h) o (min. 21 m 3 /h)<br />
– – – o<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
13
The VTC series:<br />
for every metal or alloy you want to cast.<br />
The VTC machines<br />
are ideal for:<br />
• casting steel, platinum,<br />
palladium as well as<br />
all other jewellery and<br />
industrial alloys<br />
1)<br />
The VTC Ti machines<br />
are ideal for:<br />
• casting titanium, cobalt<br />
chrome, beryllium copper<br />
and other highly reactive<br />
metals<br />
2)<br />
3)<br />
VTC vacuum/pressure casting<br />
machines<br />
<strong>Casting</strong> trees in steel and in gold<br />
The VTC 100 V – VTC 800 V are extremely<br />
versatile casting machines suitable for a wide<br />
range of applications – and a number of<br />
options that were considered mutually<br />
incompatible up to now. Thus, while the VTC<br />
series was originally designed as a hightemperature<br />
casting machine for casting<br />
steel, palladium, platinum etc. (max. 2,100°C),<br />
large flasks also make it suitable for economically<br />
producing castings in gold, silver,<br />
copper, aluminium and other materials.<br />
The machine combines a dual-chamber differential<br />
pressure system with a tilting mechanism.<br />
The casting process is achieved by<br />
rotating the entire melting-casting unit by<br />
90°. One benefit of the tilting system is the<br />
use of economically priced graphite or<br />
ceramic crucibles instead of crucibles with<br />
holes and sealing rods; these tend to have a<br />
longer service life. Some alloys, such as<br />
copper beryllium, quickly cause crucibles with<br />
holes and sealing rods to become untight<br />
and therefore useless, and for this reason,<br />
many users have so far processed such alloys<br />
only in open systems – which means they<br />
can't choose to optimise the process with<br />
overpressure or vacuum. With the VTC series,<br />
these handicaps no longer apply.<br />
1) The new control system with LCD-Display<br />
2) The casting process is achieved by rotating the<br />
entire melting-casting unit by 90°.<br />
3) Flask size Ø125 mm x 220 mm<br />
A vacuum can be produced in the melting<br />
chamber and the casting chamber to avoid<br />
oxidation processes during melting and air<br />
pockets in the casting mould. The flask is<br />
automatically pressed against the melting<br />
chamber for casting, making it possible to<br />
switch to overpressure during casting for<br />
better mould filling; in addition, the vibration<br />
technology optimises the process even<br />
further. As well as casting with flasks, casting<br />
into ingot moulds is also possible.<br />
New sweep mode vibration system<br />
for perfect results even in Pt and Pd<br />
Due to the advanced vibration technology<br />
and the sophisticated vacuum/pressure<br />
system, this machine is perfectly suited to<br />
casting platinum and palladium – and all with -<br />
out the elaborate and sensitive centrifugal<br />
14
Sweep Mode<br />
Vibration<br />
<strong>Technology</strong><br />
mechanism usually required for platinum<br />
casting machines. The VTC machines are<br />
equipped with the advanced sweep mode<br />
vibration system. It considers that each<br />
casting tree and even each item of a tree has<br />
a different resonance frequency, depending<br />
on its shape and size. Generating variable<br />
frequencies the sweep mode vibration<br />
ensures that the optimum frequency is<br />
covered. Read more about the vibration<br />
advantages on page 18/19.<br />
New generator system controlled via<br />
LCD display<br />
A completely new generation of generator and<br />
control systems is present in the VTC series.<br />
Operation is simple and safe thanks to a<br />
clearly arranged and easy-to-use LCD display.<br />
All parameters, right down to the variable<br />
tilting speed, can be individually set and<br />
saved to ensure that recurring castings always<br />
produce consistent results.<br />
The high vacuum casting systems<br />
VTC 100 V Ti - VTC 800 V Ti<br />
Highly reactive metals such as titanium pose<br />
particular challenges when casting. The atmospheric<br />
conditions in a 'normal' vacuum pressure<br />
casting machine are completely inadequate for<br />
melting and casting titanium, and the crucibles<br />
and moulds need to be made of specific materials.<br />
Hence until now the only way to cast<br />
titanium was to use extremely expensive<br />
specialised machines. As part of a joint AiF<br />
ZIM research project, Indutherm has collaborated<br />
with the FEM institute in Schwaebisch<br />
Gmund under the sponsorship of the Federal<br />
Ministry for Economics and <strong>Technology</strong> to develop<br />
a cost-effective solution for casting<br />
highly reactive metals. The ideal structural<br />
basis proved to be the VTC 200 V tilting casting<br />
machine. Following numerous modifications,<br />
such as completely reconstructed valves and<br />
hose connections, special seals and an<br />
evacuation and inert gas flushing process<br />
tailored to the machine, the prerequisites for<br />
the required vacuum of 10 –3 mbar were met.<br />
Furthermore, special crucibles and inductors<br />
were developed for the Ti versions, as the ceramic<br />
crucibles that are normally used also react<br />
with titanium. They also reduce melting times<br />
– and the shorter the melting time, the less<br />
time there is for a possible reaction.<br />
The VTC V Ti machines are not only suitable<br />
for casting titanium – they can also be used<br />
for any highly reactive metal or alloy, such as<br />
copper beryllium, amorphous steel etc.<br />
Every model in the VTC range from the VTC<br />
100 V to the VTC 800 V is available in a<br />
Ti version.<br />
Graphite crucible and ceramic crucible<br />
15
The VTC series<br />
Vacuum Pressure <strong>Casting</strong> Machines<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
temperature max.<br />
VTC 100 V / Ti<br />
12 kW 3x400 V<br />
2100° C<br />
VTC 200 V / Ti<br />
15 kW 3x400 V<br />
2100° C<br />
capacity<br />
volume graphite crucible 25 ccm = 450 gr Au 18 ct 145 ccm = 2.0 kg Au 18 ct<br />
volume ceramic crucible 30 ccm = 600 gr Pt / 250 gr steel 180 ccm = 2.5 kg Pt / 1 kg steel<br />
for use of flasks up to ø 125 mm / 220 mm h ø 125 mm / 220 mm h<br />
handling+control<br />
vibration technology ■ sweep mode ■ sweep mode<br />
automatic tilting with motor drive ■ ■<br />
automatic flask fixing ■ ■<br />
casting programs 100 100<br />
temperature measurement thermocouple up to 1,300°C thermocouple up to 1,300°C<br />
optical pyrometer up to 2,000°C<br />
optical pyrometer up to 2,000°C<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system ■ ■<br />
data printer ■ ■<br />
GSM-modem for remote service ■ ■<br />
accessories<br />
pyrometer with video output o o<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
16
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
temperature max.<br />
VTC 400 V / Ti<br />
20 kW 3x400 V<br />
2100° C<br />
VTC 800 V / Ti<br />
20 kW 3x400 V<br />
2100° C<br />
capacity<br />
volume graphite crucible 300 ccm = 4.0 kg Au 18 ct –<br />
volume ceramic crucible 300 ccm = 2.0 kg steel 600 ccm = 4.0 kg steel<br />
for use of flasks up to ø 125 mm / 220 mm h ø 125 mm / 220 mm h<br />
handling+control<br />
vibration technology ■ sweep mode ■ sweep mode<br />
automatic tilting with motor drive ■ ■<br />
automatic flask fixing ■ ■<br />
casting programs 100 100<br />
temperature measurement thermocouple up to 1,300°C thermocouple up to 1,300°C<br />
optical pyrometer up to 2,000°C<br />
optical pyrometer up to 2,000°C<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system ■ ■<br />
data printer ■ ■<br />
GSM-modem for remote service ■ ■<br />
accessories<br />
pyrometer with video output o o<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
17
The VC series<br />
Vacuum Pressure <strong>Casting</strong> Machines<br />
A thoroughly thought-through concept<br />
with the finest details...<br />
...forms the basis of the technological advances<br />
made in our VC machines guaranteeing opti -<br />
mal casting results whatever class of machine<br />
you opt for.<br />
A few examples of the additional features<br />
offered by Indutherm machines:<br />
Automatic vacuum in the melting and<br />
flask chambers…<br />
…provides the de-gasing of the alloy and<br />
avoids undesired oxidation during melting (a<br />
low oxygen content is particulary important<br />
when casting silver or red gold). Vacuum in<br />
the flask chamber during casting improves<br />
the form filling when casting filigree parts<br />
and avoids air inclusions.<br />
Melting by induction technology:<br />
The crucible with the material is located<br />
in the core of the induction coil. By generating<br />
a strong alternating magnetic<br />
field, the result is a strong alternating<br />
current in the graphite crucible and in<br />
the metal. This leads to fast heating up<br />
and thorough mixing of the material.<br />
Vacuum <strong>Casting</strong><br />
The special “oxidation-reduced<br />
casting“ system...<br />
…eliminates the danger of oxidation while the<br />
flask is cooling down.<br />
The Turbo Pressure function…<br />
…optimises the casting of very small and<br />
filigree objects. For the production of<br />
jewellery it guarantees perfect results when<br />
casting with stones. Turbo Pressure allows a<br />
precisely defined pressure to be achieved<br />
rapidly. For all program-controlled VC models,<br />
depending on the selected program the Turbo<br />
Pressure will start automatically exactly at the<br />
required time.<br />
18
Highest levels of safety for certified<br />
production<br />
The digital or program control of our machines<br />
and the integrated data printer (standard<br />
equipment for VC 650 V, VC 1000 V, VC 3000 V)<br />
ensure a high level of safety and the possibi -<br />
lity of precise process documentation (important<br />
for ISO certified casting processes).<br />
Until recently flasks with incorrect or different<br />
temperatures were a safety risk. During<br />
casting of very small or delicate parts the<br />
temperature of the flask is of utmost<br />
importance. The measurement of the flask<br />
temperature (standard for machines from<br />
VC 500 D onwards) is an important feature<br />
with regards to safety. The temperature of the<br />
flask can be monitored to within one degree.<br />
Overlapping casting<br />
All Indutherm machines have separate lock<br />
systems for the melting chamber and flask<br />
chamber. This allows time to be saved by<br />
"overlapping" casting: while the flask remains<br />
in the flask chamber for several minutes after<br />
the casting, you may fill in and heat up the<br />
next charge.<br />
Vibration System<br />
• Vibration during casting generally<br />
improves material flow and mould<br />
filling.<br />
• <strong>Casting</strong>s exhibit a higher and more<br />
consistent density<br />
• Porosity is substantially reduced.<br />
• Risk of hot cracks is reduced.<br />
• 50% smaller grain size<br />
• <strong>Casting</strong>s have greater stress and elasticity<br />
properties, making them easier to process<br />
further.<br />
In practice this means: higher and more<br />
consistent quality, less waste, less postprocessing,<br />
better deformability.<br />
A customer in USA has discovered that by<br />
using Indutherm vibration technology the<br />
total production time including postprocessing<br />
has been reduced by 25%<br />
(compared with the older VC 600).<br />
▲ porosity<br />
without<br />
vibration<br />
Rm<br />
with V<br />
Rm<br />
without V<br />
Rp 0,2<br />
with V<br />
Rp 0,2<br />
without V<br />
▲ porosity with vibration<br />
grain structure<br />
grain structure<br />
without vibration with vibration<br />
*Au 18 ct: 750 Au,128 Ag, 122 Cu<br />
elongation limit ~12% better<br />
tensile strength ~25% better<br />
tensile<br />
strength<br />
N/mm 2<br />
0,2%<br />
discharge<br />
elongation<br />
= with vibration<br />
= without vibration<br />
19
The semi-automatic VC versions<br />
These machines are<br />
designed for:<br />
• casting of jewellery and<br />
other filigree parts<br />
• VC 200 - 400:<br />
for smaller charges<br />
• VC 500: a semi-automatic<br />
machine for frequent<br />
operations.<br />
Resistor heated casting machines<br />
VC 200 / VC 300<br />
The resistor-heated vacuum casting machine<br />
VC 200 and the vacuum pressure casting<br />
machine VC 300 are very low priced casting<br />
machines for smaller productions.<br />
Nevertheless these machines offer a convincing<br />
casting quality. Both machines reach a<br />
maximum temperature of 1,200°C.<br />
Stone-in-place castings possible with all<br />
VC-series machines<br />
Induction heated casting machines<br />
VC 400<br />
The ideal machine for smaller companies<br />
producing moderate quantities but needing<br />
considerably more capacity than that offered<br />
by the MC machines. Often, experienced<br />
casters are not particularly interested in automated<br />
functions or program control, and they<br />
can achieve the same quality with the VC 400<br />
machine as with more advanced ones. Its<br />
induction generator guarantees fast heat-up<br />
and thorough mixing of the molten metal by<br />
inductive bath movement.<br />
VC 500<br />
For larger production quantities with<br />
continuous casting operation, greater performance<br />
(shorter casting times) with even<br />
larger crucibles and flask capacities (flasks up<br />
to 160 mm ø/400 mm H) is important. The<br />
high maximum temperature of 1,600°C<br />
extends the possible range of alloys. Temperature<br />
measurements in both the crucible and<br />
the flask mean the best possible repeat<br />
accuracy in the process. If alloys are changed<br />
frequently, 20 different temperature programs<br />
simplify working procedures.<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
for use of flasks up to<br />
optional up to<br />
handling+control<br />
dual temperature control<br />
flask temperature measurement<br />
flask and chamber lift<br />
temperature programs<br />
turbo pressure function<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
GSM modem for remote service<br />
accessories<br />
sintering kit (for diffusion bonding)<br />
granulation tank<br />
other versions<br />
also available as granulating unit<br />
20
with an optional<br />
granulating tank<br />
VC 200/300<br />
VC 300<br />
VC 400<br />
VC 500<br />
2 kW 230 V<br />
1200° C<br />
3.5 kW 230 V or 4.5 kW 3x400 V<br />
1400° C<br />
10 kW 3x400 V / 3x208 V<br />
1600° C<br />
■ 245 ccm = 3.6 kg Au 18 ct* ■ 170 ccm = 2.5 kg Au 18 ct* ■ 245 ccm = 3.6 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
o 386 ccm = 5.8 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
ø 130 mm / 260 mm h ø 130 mm / 260 mm h ø 130 mm / 260 mm h<br />
ø 160 mm / 400 mm h<br />
– o o<br />
– – ■<br />
o o ■<br />
– 20 temperature programs 20 temperature programs<br />
– ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
– o o<br />
o o o<br />
– o o<br />
– – GU 500<br />
*Liquid metal up to top level of the crucible<br />
■ = standard equipment o = optional<br />
21
The fully automatic VC machines<br />
These machines are<br />
designed…<br />
• for casting of jewellery and<br />
other filigree parts<br />
• for permanent use<br />
• for certified production<br />
processes<br />
• VC 650 V: for highest<br />
demands in quality and<br />
continuity<br />
VC 450<br />
The VC 450 is equipped with a program<br />
control system with full text read out LCD<br />
display.<br />
With help of the step-by-step display information<br />
and many automatic functions, the<br />
machine is very easy to handle, even for less<br />
experienced users. The program control for<br />
20 different casting cycles allow reproducible<br />
and consistent casting results.<br />
VC 480 V<br />
The construction of the new VC 480 V is<br />
based on the VC 450 and offers the same melting<br />
capacity. However, in addition to the<br />
technical equipment of the VC 450, the VC<br />
480 V comes with 8 kW generator power, an<br />
advanced program control with 100 casting<br />
programs, variable vacuum in the flask chamber<br />
and – the most important add-on – the<br />
INDUTHERM vibration system.<br />
VC 650 V<br />
The absolute “State of the art“-machine:<br />
the VC 650 V garantees highest efficiency –<br />
through maximum speed and quality.<br />
New program control system<br />
Thanks to a new control panel with full text<br />
LCD display, all programs and parameters are<br />
very easy and convenient to set. 100 casting<br />
programs guarantee fast operation and con -<br />
sistent casting results. Parameters are preprogrammed<br />
for all major alloys, e.g. for<br />
AGS, Alpha Plus, Heraeus, Legor and<br />
Pandora alloys. In practice this mean: from<br />
the first flask, you can expect good casting<br />
results without carrying out expensive pretests.<br />
Turbulence reduction software<br />
New system for faster and more laminar<br />
metal flow.<br />
Turbo Pressure PLUS<br />
Filling of the flask using fast overpressure<br />
allows casting of very filigree parts and<br />
casting with stones. Now with reduced gas<br />
consumption and with an even faster<br />
pressure degree.<br />
Sweep Mode<br />
The new sweep mode vibration system can<br />
do even more: it considers that each casting<br />
tree and even each item of a tree has a different<br />
resonance frequency, depending on its<br />
shape and size. The sweep mode vibration<br />
generating variable frequencies covers all<br />
natural resonances.<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
for use of flasks up to<br />
optional up to<br />
handling+control<br />
vibration technology<br />
pneumatic bell lock<br />
maximum pressure<br />
programs<br />
program control<br />
dual temperature control<br />
flask temperature measurement<br />
automatic flask and chamber lift<br />
variable vacuum in flask chamber<br />
turbo pressure PLUS system<br />
turbulence reduction software<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
data printer<br />
GSM modem for remote service<br />
accessories<br />
sintering kit (for diffusion bonding)<br />
granulation tank<br />
22
Vibration<br />
<strong>Technology</strong><br />
Sweep Mode<br />
Vibration<br />
<strong>Technology</strong><br />
VC 450<br />
VC 480 V<br />
VC 650 V<br />
4.5 kW 3x400 V<br />
1400° C<br />
8 kW 3x400 V<br />
1600° C<br />
12 kW 3x400 V<br />
1700° C<br />
■ 170 ccm = 2.5 kg Au 18 ct* ■ 170 ccm = 2.5 kg Au 18 ct* ■ 245 ccm = 3.6 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
o 386 ccm = 5.8 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
ø 130 mm / 260 mm h ø 130 mm / 260 mm h ø 130 mm / 260 mm h<br />
ø 160 mm / 400 mm h<br />
– ■ ■ in sweep mode<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
1.5 bar 1.5 bar 3 bar<br />
20 100 100<br />
by LCD-display, full text readout by LCD-display, full text readout by LCD-display, full text readout<br />
o o ■<br />
– – ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
– ■ ■<br />
– ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
o o ■<br />
o o ■<br />
o o o<br />
o o o<br />
*Liquid metal up to top level of the crucible ■ = standard equipment o = optional<br />
23
The Vacuum Pressure <strong>Casting</strong> Machines<br />
for large casting parts<br />
These machines are<br />
designed for:<br />
• the automotive and<br />
component industries<br />
• rapid prototyping<br />
• orthopaedic and<br />
medicine technologies<br />
• machinery construction<br />
• toolmaking<br />
• sculptures<br />
Capacity and power for large scale projects<br />
Our large vacuum pressure casting machines are mostly<br />
used for precise castings in aluminium alloys. They are<br />
always the first choice for parts with complicated geometry<br />
or when the number of pieces is not large enough for diecast<br />
production. VC 1000, 3000 and 12000 offer the best<br />
pre-conditions for high quality castings in aluminium: the<br />
hydrogen content of aluminium alloys may be adjusted by<br />
regulating the vacuum during melting. This way, foaming of<br />
molten metal can be avoided without any melt additives.<br />
Overpressure in the melting chamber during and after<br />
casting and simultaneous vacuum in the flask chamber optimise<br />
form filling especially in filigree or thin-walled areas.<br />
The V-versions with vibration<br />
All our large VC machines are now equipped with a new<br />
program control system. The casting process is controlled<br />
via LCD full text display. Complete casting cycles may be<br />
stored for repeatable castings. Each machine is available in<br />
two versions:<br />
The standard versions offer 20 casting programs, the V-<br />
versions have 100 programs and as the most important<br />
innovation, they use the vibration technology for improved<br />
form filling.<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
for use of flasks up to<br />
optional up to<br />
handling+control<br />
20 temperature programs<br />
program control (100 programs)<br />
automatic flask and chamber lift<br />
dual temperature control<br />
flask temperature measurement<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
data printer<br />
GSM modem for remote service<br />
accessories<br />
granulating tank<br />
magnesium kit<br />
Magnesium casting versions<br />
24<br />
The magnesium casting versions are constructed according<br />
to strict safety requirements and guarantee safe and easy<br />
casting of magnesium – and of course of every other metal,<br />
too.
VC 1 000<br />
VC 1 000 V<br />
VC 3 000<br />
VC 3 000 V<br />
VC 12 000<br />
VC 12 000 V<br />
picture: VC 1000 with feeding system<br />
and window door<br />
picture: VC 3000 V<br />
with large flask chamber<br />
picture: VC 12 000<br />
25 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
30 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
40 kW 3x400 V<br />
1200° C<br />
■ 1,500 ccm = 4 kg Al ■ 3,400 ccm = 9 kg Al ■ 12,000 ccm = 30 kg Al<br />
ø 250 mm / 500 mm h ø 450 mm / 600 mm h ø 600 mm / 800 mm h<br />
– ø 300 mm / 600 mm h –<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ VC 1000 V ■ VC 3000 V ■ VC 12 000 V<br />
■ VC 1000 V ■ VC 3000 V –<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
o o o<br />
o o o<br />
o o o<br />
*Liquid metal up to top level of the crucible<br />
■ = standard equipment o = optional<br />
25
Machines for melting and handpouring<br />
These machines<br />
are designed…<br />
• for all melting processes<br />
with an extensive<br />
generation of smoke and<br />
oxides, which should be<br />
absorbed<br />
• for melting down scrap and<br />
cuttings or large parts like<br />
stamping residues<br />
Some metals develop a lot of<br />
smoke and oxides during melting.<br />
It is better to melt them in open<br />
systems, with use of an air<br />
absorber.<br />
No limitation in<br />
the material size.<br />
With the MU series we offer melting machines for hand pouring<br />
for many different needs and with crucible capacities from 155 ccm<br />
up to 1,200 ccm. The material is molten in open crucibles and<br />
poured by hand into the mould.<br />
Melting Units MU Series<br />
Flexible melting furnaces designed to melt gold and silver alloys<br />
and as well as aluminium, bronze, brass.<br />
Due to the strong induction generator (15 kW) and the low<br />
induction frequency the stirring effect of the metal is excellent.<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
The MU as vacuum casting machine:<br />
MUV Series<br />
The V-versions include one or two additional extra large capacity<br />
vacuum chambers. Evacuating the flask immediately after<br />
pouring improves the form filling, reduces porosity and avoids<br />
oxidation of the hot metal.<br />
perforated flasks with/without flange<br />
handling+control<br />
temp. measurement by thermocouple<br />
temperature control<br />
temperature programs<br />
Ideal for melting large<br />
parts: no sealing rod construction<br />
reduces the available<br />
space.<br />
quality management<br />
interface RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
GSM modem for remote control<br />
26
MU 700<br />
MUV 700<br />
MU series<br />
MUV series<br />
MU 200 MU 400-1200 MUV 200 MUV 400-1200<br />
3.5 kW 230 V or 6.0 kW 3x400 V<br />
1300° C or 1500° C<br />
10-15 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
3.5 kW 230 V or 6.0 kW 3x400 V<br />
1300° C or 1500° C<br />
10-15 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
MU 400: 10 kW<br />
MUV 400: 10 kW<br />
MU 700: 12 kW<br />
MUV 700: 12 kW<br />
MU 900: 15 kW<br />
MUV 900: 15 kW<br />
MU 1200: 15 kW<br />
MUV 1200: 15 kW<br />
155 ccm = 2.3 kg Au 18 ct ❁ 155 ccm = 2.3 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MU 400: 400 ccm = 6 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MU 700: 700 ccm = 9 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MU 900: 900 ccm = 13 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MU 1200: 1,200 ccm = 18 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MUV 400: 400 ccm = 6 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MUV 700: 700 ccm = 9 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MUV 900: 900 ccm = 13 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
MUV 1200: 1,200 ccm = 18 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
– ■ up to ø160 mm/400 mm h<br />
■<br />
■<br />
■<br />
20 20<br />
■<br />
■<br />
o<br />
■<br />
o<br />
❁<br />
real capacity for casting<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
27
Tilting Furnaces for melting and casting<br />
large quantities into ingots or shell moulds<br />
These machines<br />
are designed…<br />
• for melting large quantities,<br />
for example in the recycling<br />
sector<br />
• for casting large parts into<br />
shellcasting moulds<br />
TF 1200 - TF 4000 – tried and tested<br />
in foundries and precious metal<br />
merchants across the world:<br />
Our tilting furnaces are mainly used in two<br />
areas:<br />
1. for melting down large quantities of metal<br />
such as antique gold or manufacturing<br />
residues like casting waste, scrap or swarf.<br />
15 - 60 kW output and low-frequency tuning<br />
means fast melting – even for large<br />
volumes – and excellent through-mixing.<br />
2. for casting large, heavy components<br />
e.g. according to the shell casting principle<br />
For pouring off, the inductor/crucible unit is<br />
tilted forwards, either using a pivot lever or<br />
wheel, optionally with<br />
reduction. The wheel is<br />
recommended out of<br />
preference for safety<br />
reasons, as the operator<br />
must move away from<br />
the splash zone when<br />
pouring off.<br />
The TF 6000 and TF 12000<br />
are tilted using a joystick.<br />
TF 6 000 and TF 12 000 – the giants<br />
among tilting furnaces<br />
The large crucible volumes of 6,000 respectively<br />
12,000 ccm gives these machines an<br />
enormous capacity.<br />
The generator is fitted with a 32-bit micro controller<br />
and is controlled via a console with an<br />
LCD display with full text readout.<br />
100 programs enable set process parameters<br />
to be stored. Efficient thermal insulation and<br />
electromagentic shielding ensure a high level<br />
of effectiveness. Comparison tests carried<br />
out by a customer recently proved that the<br />
TF 12000 has a higher level of productivity<br />
than a competitor model with twice the<br />
performance and correspondingly twice the<br />
energy costs.<br />
Because of the potentially<br />
large weight, the inductor/<br />
crucible unit is no longer<br />
tilted manually – it uses a<br />
motor drive with a stable<br />
shaft. Use of a joystick<br />
enables the tilting process<br />
to be controlled easily and<br />
sensitively, as with a pivot<br />
lever or wheel.<br />
28
TF 4000<br />
TF 12000<br />
TF series<br />
TF 1200 / 2000 / 4000 TF 6000 / 12 000<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
15-30 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
TF 1200: 15 kW<br />
TF 2000: 25 kW<br />
TF 4000: 30 kW<br />
40-60 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
TF 6000: 40 kW<br />
TF 12000: 60 kW<br />
temperature measurement thermocouple ■ ■<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume TF 1200:1,200 ccm =18 kg Au 18 ct ❁ TF 6000: 6,000 ccm = 90 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
TF 2000: 2,000 ccm = 30 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
TF 4000: 4,000 ccm = 60 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
TF 12000: 12,000 ccm = 180 kg Au 18 ct ❁<br />
handling+control<br />
tilting by lever ■ –<br />
tilting by wheel o –<br />
reduction for wheel o –<br />
tilting with motordrive (remote control) – ■<br />
temperature control ■ by display ■ by LCD-Display, full text display<br />
temperature programs 16 100<br />
quality management<br />
interface RS 232, diagnostic system ■ ■<br />
GSM modem for remote service o ■<br />
❁<br />
real capacity for casting<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
29
High temperature melting machines for steel,<br />
platinum, palladium, chrome-cobalt…<br />
These machines are ideal for…<br />
• MU 100 C: melting small<br />
quantities of steel and other<br />
metals with a high melting<br />
point<br />
• MU 200 C: for larger<br />
quantities, also for pouring<br />
into flasks<br />
• TF 2000 C/4000 C: melting<br />
large quantities and casting<br />
of voluminous steel parts<br />
We offer melting machines with three<br />
different capacities for melting metals with a<br />
high melting point, such as steel, palladium,<br />
platinum, chrome-cobalt etc.<br />
Common to all is the generator, specially<br />
designed for the most thorough throughmixing<br />
of molten metals. The ceramic<br />
crucibles are specially designed for our hightemperature<br />
casting machines and are<br />
extremely heat-resistant, ensuring the least<br />
possible amount of energy loss and a lower<br />
internal temperature in the melting chamber.<br />
The melting machines MU 100 C and<br />
MU 200 C<br />
The MU 100 C is principally used for analysis<br />
purposes, whereas the MU 200 C has sufficient<br />
crucible capacity to generate custom alloys<br />
for example, or use them on a regular<br />
basis for melting down product residues from<br />
platinum or palladium processing. For use as<br />
a casting machine we recommend the MUV<br />
versions with one or two vacuum containers<br />
High temperature tilting furnaces<br />
TF 2000 C/TF 4000 C<br />
These melting furnaces have been specially<br />
designed to melt large quantities of steel or<br />
other metals with a high melting point. The<br />
strong induction generator and low induction<br />
frequency means very good mixing of the<br />
metal can be achieved.<br />
The main areas of applications are:<br />
• casting voluminous parts such as<br />
sculptures (also sand casting)<br />
• purification melting of waste<br />
• casting of ingots<br />
• casting of solid rollers<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
for use of flasks up to<br />
handling+control<br />
tilting with motor drive (remote control)<br />
temperature programs<br />
temperature measurement by pyrometer<br />
LCD-Display<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
GSM modem for remote service<br />
30
MU 100 C / MU 200 C<br />
MUV 100 C / MU 200 C<br />
TF 2000 C / TF 4000 C<br />
MU 100 C<br />
MUV 100 C<br />
MU 200 C<br />
MUV 200 C TF 2000 C TF 4000 C<br />
8 kW 3x400 V<br />
2000° C<br />
15 kW 3x400 V<br />
2000° C<br />
40 kW 3x400 V<br />
1700° C<br />
60 kW 3x400 V<br />
1700° C<br />
50 ccm = 1 kg Pt ❁ 155 ccm = 2.5 kg Pt ❁ 2,000 ccm = 5-14 kg steel ❁ 4,000 ccm = 8-30 kg steel ❁<br />
o up to ø160 mm/400 mm h (MUV 100 C/MUV 200 C) –<br />
– ■<br />
– 20<br />
– o<br />
– ■<br />
■<br />
o<br />
■<br />
o<br />
Tip casting under vacuum/overpressure:<br />
MC 15+ (see page 8), MC 20 V and MC 100 V (see page10)<br />
or the VTC series (see page 14)<br />
❁<br />
real capacity for casting<br />
■ = standard equipment<br />
o = optional<br />
31
Special solutions for recycling and analysis<br />
and for ingot casting<br />
These machines<br />
are designed for:<br />
• old gold, remains from<br />
production, dental gold<br />
• remains from galvanic<br />
processes, such as gold,<br />
palladium or platinum<br />
sponges, electrolytic silver<br />
• dental waste<br />
• electronic waste, thermosensors,<br />
contacts etc.<br />
• remains from anodes<br />
Indutherm systems used in the recycling process<br />
old gold<br />
dental gold<br />
remains from<br />
production and<br />
recycling<br />
ingots<br />
granules<br />
melting down melting down<br />
flakes<br />
Refining<br />
TF MU GU<br />
Subsequent processing of the pure precious metals as new alloys into…<br />
GU CC VC 400 B/P TF / MU<br />
…granulate<br />
…semi-finished material<br />
(sheets and stripes,<br />
wires and tubes)<br />
…ingots or pellets<br />
with defined<br />
quantities<br />
…ingots<br />
32
TF 4000<br />
Ingot <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
VC 400<br />
Pellet <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
VC 400 B<br />
Bar <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
The demands on casting and smelting plants differ considerably in<br />
the field of analysis and recycling. Sometimes only a few grams have<br />
to be molten for sampling, sometimes large quantities have to be<br />
molten. Often a certain shape or size is required, such as ingots or<br />
pellets.<br />
Moreover, the metals and alloys themselves require different handling:<br />
alloys containing copper, for example, should be molten in a<br />
vacuum or inert gas atmosphere as they tend towards strong oxide<br />
formation. For other metals or alloys, in turn, open plants are recommended<br />
as fumes have to be drawn off, for example.<br />
The overview shown on the left page is intended to give you an insight<br />
into the versatile possibilities of our program. The ideal solution<br />
for your application is best determined by discussion or by trial<br />
casts. Just ask us!<br />
TF 4 000 Ingot <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
The ingot moulds are located in a movable slide which locks into<br />
place precisely at the casting point, thus ensuring safe filling of<br />
the individual moulds.<br />
VC 400 Pellet <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
This machine has been developed for casting alloys or production<br />
leftovers into pellets with a pre-defined weight or size.<br />
A hydraulic ejector allows the pellets to be collected easily.<br />
The machine is based on the VC 400 model.<br />
VC 400 B Bar <strong>Casting</strong> Machine<br />
This machine is especially suitable for melting and casting defined<br />
quantities of metal such as one kilogram ingots. During the melting<br />
process, the crucible chamber is flooded with inert gas.<br />
At a glance: all our<br />
machines for metal<br />
recycling<br />
temperature max.<br />
capacity<br />
mostly used for<br />
vacuum/inert gas<br />
page<br />
VTC V series<br />
2,000°C<br />
25 - 600 ccm<br />
ingots<br />
■<br />
14<br />
MU/TF series<br />
1,400° - 2,000° C<br />
50 - 12,000 ccm<br />
ingots<br />
–<br />
26-31<br />
VC 400 Pellet <strong>Casting</strong><br />
1,400°C<br />
170 ccm<br />
pellets<br />
■<br />
see above<br />
VC 400 B<br />
1,300°C<br />
170 ccm<br />
ingots<br />
■<br />
see above<br />
33
The Continuous <strong>Casting</strong> Machines – the only<br />
ones with vacuum and/or quattro drive<br />
These machines<br />
are designed…<br />
• for fast and flexible<br />
production of semifinished<br />
material<br />
• for use in every<br />
metalworking<br />
industry<br />
• as multiple use<br />
instruments<br />
especially for the<br />
production of rings<br />
34<br />
More flexibility, lower costs<br />
Indutherm continuous casting machines help<br />
you to save production costs.<br />
With only one machine, you can produce your<br />
own alloys or semi-finished products in different<br />
shapes and sizes in the shortest time, for<br />
example:<br />
• wires or bars in every diameter you need, up<br />
to ø 40 mm (CC 3000)<br />
• sheets and strips, e.g. ring production, for<br />
stamping and pressing<br />
• tubes, perfect as basic material for cutting in<br />
sections for wedding ring production<br />
• granulates<br />
As the desired moulds and alloys can be<br />
produced within minutes, you can reduce your<br />
investment for material in storage. Your<br />
processes will get faster, more flexible and more<br />
efficient.<br />
The main advantages of the Indutherm<br />
CC-machines:<br />
• short change-over times for various casting<br />
sizes<br />
• a lot of additional equipment available<br />
• e.g. diffusion bonding set (“sintering”) and<br />
granulation tank<br />
• induction generators with low frequency<br />
tuning for thorough mixing of the metal<br />
• automated inert gas<br />
• high metal quality, free of porosity<br />
Optional quattro drive<br />
The optional<br />
drawing unit with<br />
four instead of two<br />
motor driven feed<br />
rolls produce very<br />
smooth tubes and<br />
sheeting without<br />
the otherwise<br />
unavoidable marks<br />
of transportation<br />
(for CC 1000 and CC 3000).<br />
All CC-machines also available as VCCversions<br />
with vacuum function (pat. pend.)<br />
With the VCC-machines, melting can take place<br />
under a vacuum or inert gas. This is ideal for<br />
alloys containing copper such as red gold or for<br />
silver as these materials tend to oxidise easily.<br />
Degasification under a vacuum results in a<br />
substantially improved – because of the absence<br />
of oxidation – semi-finished product.<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
capacity<br />
crucible volume<br />
wire production up to<br />
tube production up to<br />
sheet production<br />
handling+control<br />
16 programs for melting and die temp.,<br />
drawing lengths, stoptime, reverse draw<br />
inert gas overpressure<br />
vacuum<br />
neutral inert gas atmosphere<br />
quality management<br />
RS 232, diagnostic system<br />
data printer<br />
GSM modem for remote service<br />
accessories<br />
Quattro-drawing unit<br />
sintering kit<br />
granulation tank<br />
bending-unit<br />
simultaneous casting of several wires<br />
coiling equipment
picture: VCC 400<br />
CC 400<br />
VCC 400<br />
picture: VCC 1000<br />
with optional<br />
Quattro Drive<br />
CC 1000<br />
VCC 1000<br />
picture: CC 3000<br />
with optional<br />
Quattro Drive<br />
CC 3 000<br />
VCC 3 000<br />
15 kW 3x400 V / 3x208 V<br />
1500° C<br />
25 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
30 kW 3x400 V<br />
1500° C<br />
■ 285 ccm = 4.2kg Au 18 ct* ■ 1,500 ccm = 22 kg Au 18 ct* ■ 3,400 ccm = 51 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
o 400 ccm = 6.0 kg Au 18 ct*<br />
■ ø 15 mm ■ ø 30 mm ■ ø 40 mm**<br />
■ ø 30 mm ■ ø 40 mm ■ ø 50 mm**<br />
■ 50 x 8 mm ■ 100 x 10 mm ■ 130 x 12 mm<br />
o 60 x 8 mm<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
– CC 400/■ VCC 400 – CC 1000/■ VCC 1000 – CC 3000/■ VCC 3000<br />
– CC 400/■ VCC 400 – CC 1000/■ VCC 1000 – CC 3000/■ VCC 3000<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
o o o<br />
– o o<br />
o – –<br />
o o o<br />
o o o<br />
– o 3 wires*** o 5 wires***<br />
– o o<br />
*Liquid metal up to top level of the crucible<br />
■ = standard equipment o = optional<br />
** Standard sizes – special dimensions on demand such as tube Ø 85 mm,<br />
5 mm wall thickness or strips 65 x 40 mm, profiles for watch cases etc.<br />
*** not in combination<br />
with Quattro Drive 35
Solutions for Granulating<br />
For the production of granules we can offer you three different systems.<br />
• For frequent or permanent production of granules our GU series granulating machines will be<br />
the first choice.<br />
• If you only want to produce granules occasionally, the addition of a vacuum pressure or a<br />
continuous casting machine with a granulating tank is a good alternative.<br />
• For the production of micro granules we recommend our GU 500 micro.<br />
The Granulating Machines GU 500, GU 1000, GU 3000 and GU 12 000<br />
These machines are developed especially for granulating bullions, sheet metal or<br />
casting residues into proper grains. The granulation tanks are very easy to remove<br />
for clearing.<br />
The GU machines are available with crucible sizes from 245 ccm up to 12,000 ccm.<br />
The major applications are<br />
• Preparation of alloys out of gold and master alloy<br />
• Preparation of alloy components<br />
• Preparation of alloys from components<br />
• Cleaning up of already casted metal<br />
… each under inert gas atmosphere or under a vacuum<br />
GU 500<br />
GU 1000<br />
GU 3000<br />
GU 12 000<br />
crucible volume in ccm 245-386 1,500 3,400 12,000<br />
volume in kg Au 18ct 3.6-5.7 22.0 51.0 180.0<br />
generator kw (400 V) 10 25 30 40<br />
GU 12 000<br />
36
The Micro Shot Systems GU 500 micro,<br />
GU 1000 micro and GU 3000 micro<br />
The GU micro series was developed for the<br />
production of micro granules with a grain size of<br />
between 0.1 and 1 mm. The systems are based on<br />
the Indutherm granulation units as shown on the<br />
left but all key components, particularly the jet<br />
system, are special developments. The main areas<br />
of application for the micro-granules are in metal<br />
laser sintering processes, in jewellery surface<br />
design and in soldering technology.<br />
Pull-out handle for easy removal<br />
of the tank insert.<br />
GU 500 micro<br />
Pour off the residual water…<br />
The Granulating Tank for casting machines in<br />
the VC and CC series<br />
The optional equipment of a vacuum pressure or a<br />
continuous casting machine with a granulating tank<br />
is a suitable solution for occasional granulating. Granulating<br />
tanks are available for all machines in the<br />
VC series from VC 400 up to the VC 12000 and<br />
for all CC machines.<br />
…and then pour off the granules.<br />
The main advantages of the new generation of<br />
granulating tanks:<br />
• Easy installation of the granulating tank<br />
• Fast changing between casting process and granulating<br />
• Ergonomically and perfectly balanced design for<br />
safe and easy handling<br />
• Optimised streaming behaviour of the cooling water<br />
• Reliable separation of water and granules<br />
CC 3000 with<br />
optional granulation<br />
tank<br />
Granulation tanks in different sizes:<br />
left: GU 500, option for VC 400 - VC 650 V and CC 400<br />
middle: GU 1000, option for VC 1000 and CC 1000<br />
right: GU 3000, option for VC 3000 and CC 3000<br />
37
An effective solution for wedding ring production<br />
These machines are<br />
designed…<br />
• for the production of<br />
multi-colour rings<br />
in accordance with the<br />
diffusion bonding process<br />
• for solid bonding<br />
of every kind of metal<br />
38<br />
Sintering is the optimum process for producing<br />
multi-coloured rings, mostly sold as<br />
wedding rings. Metals are processed under<br />
pressure and at temperatures below the solidification<br />
point. The pressure is generated<br />
pneumatically and not mechanically via a<br />
threaded spindle. This means that there is no<br />
risk of graphite parts breaking as a result of<br />
heat expansion. The fusion between layers<br />
has the same durability as the metal itself.<br />
Pre-manufactured rings can be easily resized<br />
(7 sizes and more).<br />
Benefits of the Indutherm sintering<br />
process:<br />
• With the sintering unit processes can take<br />
place under a vacuum, which is important<br />
for alloys with a manganese component<br />
• Processes can take place under inert gas<br />
• Straightforward installation/removal of the<br />
rings<br />
• Approximate duration of process: 5 minutes<br />
• Depending on the thickness of the rings, up<br />
to 6 rings can be processed simultaneously<br />
Indutherm offers different methods of<br />
sintering:<br />
The special sintering machines (SU series) or<br />
the sintering kit for installation into existing<br />
casting or continuous casting machines.<br />
Sintering Machine SU 300<br />
With the SU 300, the temperature and<br />
pressure are controlled manually. Exceptional<br />
results can be produced using this machine<br />
after just a brief introductory period.<br />
Sintering Machine SU 450<br />
The new SU 450 is equipped with a highly<br />
sensitive sensor system, which permanently<br />
controls the reduction of the rings and<br />
provides real-time information about the<br />
reduction values on the display. The temperature<br />
may be regulated very precisely close to<br />
the solidus temperature, right until the reduction<br />
begins.<br />
As soon as the pre-defined reduction value<br />
has been reached, the process stops automatically<br />
thus preventing too much deformation<br />
(depending on the composition and alloy the<br />
pre-defined reduction value varies between<br />
0.1 mm and 0.3 mm). The “Sensor-Control-<br />
System” considerably reduces the time and<br />
material required for production for two<br />
major reasons: firstly because the process<br />
parameters can be defined quickly and<br />
without making lots of test rings; and<br />
secondly because the quality of the sintering<br />
process is constantly very high. Therefore the<br />
finishing effort is reduced, as well as the loss<br />
of material, which occurs during subsequent<br />
diamond dressing or turning.<br />
Benefits of the SU 450:<br />
• program control for 100 different process<br />
cycles<br />
• sintering protocol after every cycle<br />
• LCD display<br />
• sensor control system for permanent<br />
process control and real-time display of the<br />
reduction<br />
• no long-winded preliminary tests<br />
• less finishing effort and loss of metal<br />
The Sintering Kit<br />
The sintering kit can be installed into existing<br />
VC 200 to VC 650 V type casting machines<br />
and in all continuous casting machines. The<br />
kit is ideal for the occasional diffusion<br />
bonding job and for smaller series<br />
production. Only a few minutes are needed<br />
to install/remove the sintering kit.<br />
The sintering kit can be used for occasional<br />
diffusion bonding and for small series<br />
production. For larger production quantities<br />
we recommend our sintering machines<br />
SU 300 and SU 450.
SU 300 SU 450<br />
performance<br />
power max. / electrical connection<br />
maximum temperature<br />
3.5 kW 230 V<br />
1000° C NiCr-Ni<br />
4.5 kW 3x400 V<br />
1000° C<br />
capacity<br />
sintering processes per hour ~6-7 ~10<br />
handling+control<br />
reduction control – ■<br />
mechanic fix stop ■ –<br />
electronic fix stop – ■<br />
automatic process stop – ■<br />
program control – ■ LCD-Display, full text readout<br />
programs – 100<br />
data printer – ■<br />
■ = standard equipment o = optional<br />
For sintering the single layers are<br />
centered on a spindle.<br />
For simultaneous processing of<br />
several rings, the rings are isolated<br />
from each other by grafite shims.<br />
39
Frankfurt<br />
✈<br />
How to get to Indutherm:<br />
Mannheim<br />
A 6<br />
HN/Untereisesheim<br />
36<br />
Heilbronn<br />
Nürnberg<br />
Bruchsal<br />
42<br />
Bruchsal<br />
B 293<br />
B 35<br />
12<br />
A5<br />
4<br />
Bretten<br />
A 81<br />
9<br />
Karlsruhe<br />
Karlsruhe/<br />
Durlach<br />
Basel<br />
44<br />
7<br />
B293<br />
Berghausen<br />
Wilferdingen<br />
✈<br />
Baden-Airpark<br />
Walzbachtal-<br />
Wössingen<br />
7<br />
Königsbach<br />
B 10<br />
Stein<br />
3<br />
Pforzheim-West<br />
Eisingen<br />
43<br />
4<br />
B294<br />
2,5<br />
44<br />
Pforzheim<br />
Neulingen-Bauschlott<br />
Pforzheim-Nord<br />
A8<br />
30<br />
A 81<br />
Your partner for service and spare parts<br />
Stuttgart<br />
53<br />
Stuttgart-Airport<br />
✈<br />
München<br />
Indutherm 0113–2000 en · www.riedelwerb.de<br />
Brettener Strasse 32 · 75045 Walzbachtal/Wössingen · Germany<br />
phone: +49 (0) 7203 9218 - 0 · fax: +49 (0) 7203 9218 - 70<br />
e-mail: info@indutherm.de<br />
www.indutherm.de<br />
Member of several European CRAFT Projects<br />
All machine descriptions and technical data published in this leaflet make no claim to be complete.<br />
They are subject to change and therefore they are not basis of contract. No liability for printing errors.<br />
Reprinting and publishing, even as excerpts, are only permitted with the prior consent of Indutherm!