CREATION OF A HARDENED LAYER IN LOW-ALLOY STEEL PART BY SIMPLIFIED CARBON DEPOSITION PROCESS IN SHELL MOLDING

Abstract

Shell Molding is a casting process that uses sand coated with thermosetting resin to produce thin and resistant molds, enabling the manufacturing of metal parts with high precision, good surface finish, and complex geometries, while reducing machining. This study proposes a simplified surface hardening method for low-alloy steels by applying graphite at the mold–metal interface to promote carbon deposition. The aim is to form a martensitic layer after heat treatment, enhancing wear and fatigue resistance without compromising toughness, while evaluating depth, uniformity, and impact on mechanical properties.