Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Centrifugal casting is a process where molten metal is poured into a rotating mold. The high-speed rotation generates a strong centrifugal force that pushes the molten metal against the inner walls of the mold. This force influences the distribution of the metal and any impurities within it.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The principle of separation in centrifugal casting is based on density differences.
• The centrifugal force acts outwards from the center of rotation.
• Molten metal, being dense, is thrown with great force against the outer mold wall, where it solidifies.
• Impurities, such as slag, dross, and non-metallic inclusions, are generally less dense than the molten metal.
• Because they are lighter, these impurities are displaced by the heavier metal and are forced to float inwards, towards the center of rotation.
• As a result, the impurities segregate and become concentrated at the free inner surface of the casting (i.e., in the centre of a hollow cylindrical casting). This impure layer can then be machined away, leaving a sound, dense, and clean outer casting.
Therefore, the impurities are collected in the centre of the casting.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Due to the density difference, the less dense impurities are displaced by the heavier molten metal and accumulate at the inner radius, or the centre of the casting.