Radiographic Testing (RT) is employed to identify subsurface defects in cast steel products. In RT, film media and a radioactive source are positioned on opposing sides of a casting’s wall or feature, with the component and film medium beyond the component then exposed to ionizing radiation for an amount of time that is proportional to the part’s thickness. Films are subsequently reviewed and compared to reference radiographs to provide insight as to the internal soundness of the casting.

Ultrasonic Testing (UT) is employed to identify subsurface defects in cast steel products. It can also be used to measure the wall thickness of a casting. In UT, a transducer is used to impart high-frequency sound waves to the cast steel product and to measure the waves that are reflected back to the transducer. The transit time, amplitude, and shape of the reflected waves are monitored during inspection and provide the inspector insight as to the internal soundness of the casting.

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) is used to identify surface and near surface defects in cast steel products. During MT, the steel casting is magnetized by passing a high-amperage, low-voltage current through the part and fine magnetic particles (often florescent) suspended in a carrier fluid are applied to the surface of the part. Discontinuities near or at the surface of the casting disrupt the magnetic field and result in a flux, which in turn causes the particles in the medium to concentrate in those areas, enabling visual identification of the flaw. Liquid Penetrant Testing can also be employed for the identification of surface defects.

Visual Examination is used extensively in casting manufacturing. Visuotactile reference comparator plates assist in the assessment of the surface quality and texture of as-cast surfaces on steel castings. Surface finish is a feature of castings that can be specified by the project team to fit with aesthetic goals of the project. CAST CONNEX Standardized Products are supplied with surface finish compatible with high quality architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS)

CAST CONNEX products are manufactured to tolerances that are an order of magnitude tighter than those achievable via fabrication, offering unmatched accuracy and precision in geometrically complex connections.

Coordinate measuring machines (CMM) are utilized throughout the casting manufacturing process. CMM is used to dimensionally inspect the as-cast geometry of the part, to assist in balancing the part prior to CNC machining, and to measure and document the finished product prior to shipping.