Investment Process

Investment, also called lost wax or precision, castings are characterized by their exceptionally fine detail, close tolerances and superior surface finishes.

The result is dependable, consistent quality. Providing impressive economy, Flowserve investment castings will keep expensive finishing and machining operations to a minimum, and in some cases, eliminate the need all together.

Flowserve routinely supplies commercial quality investment castings, but ASTM Severity Levels II and I quality are available as required. From a one-of-a-kind custom part to a production item, Flowserve can satisfy customer requirements.

Quality, Inspection, Testing

A full range of laboratory, mechanical and non-destructive testing services is available as required.

Routine procedures include:

• X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy
• Leco carbon and gas (H, N, O) analysis
• Mechanical testing (tensile and impact)

Miscellaneous Capabilities

• Welding to SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW Processes. Welders qualified to ASME Section IX Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, and ASTM A488
• Blasting with sand; stainless steal shot; glass bead; aluminum oxide
• Heat treating and quenching
• Pattern, mold and core making
• Acid cleaning

Investment Capabilities
Alloys

Flowserve pours stainless steel, nickel-based and cobalt-based alloys in accordance with several specifications, including ASTM and Aerospace Material Specifications. Custom alloys also can be produced.

Standards and Specifications
Common specifications are listed below.

• Stainless Steels: ASTM A217; A351; A743; A744; A747; A352; A890
• Nickel Base: ASTM A494
• Cobalt Base: AMS 5387
• Heat Resistant Grades: ASTM A297

Melting

• 300 lb (136 kg) and 1300 pound (590 kg)
  coreless induction furnaces

Maximum Weights

• 200 lb (91 kg) gross; 150 lb (68 kg) net

Minimum Casting Wall Thickness

• 3/32 in (2.381 mm) nominal; 1/16 in (1.587 mm) depending on part configuration

Tolerances

• ±0.005 in/in (±0.005 mm/mm)

Surface Finish

• 125-150 RMS (as cast)