ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPERTIES OF BIRNIN KUDU AND SARA SANDS DEPOSITS FOR FOUNDRY APPLICATIONS
Abstract
The paper presents experimental report on assessment of some properties of Birni kudu and Sara sand deposits for foundry applications. It is aimed at ascertaining the suitability of the sands by determining and analyzing some of their properties using standard foundry laboratory test equipment. Sand samples were collected from different locations in Birni kudu and Sara sand deposits and subjected to tests. The results obtained include: Chemical compositions – SiO2 94.18% for Birnin Kudu sand and 95.12% SiO2 for Sara sand, Clay content varies from 8.8 to 10.1% for Birnin Kudu sand and 7.3 to 10.2% for Sara sand, Moisture content varies from1.4 to 3.4% for Birnin Kudu sand and1.3 to 3.5% for Sara sand. Others are: Green compressive strengths ((41- 60 KN/m2) for Birnin Kudu sand and (38 - 54 KN/m2) for Sara sand, Dry compressive strengths ((165- 200 KN/m2) for Birnin Kudu sand and (153 - 173KN/m2) for Sara sand while the permeability values were, (28 – 65) for Birnin Kudu sand and (25-45) for Sara sand, etc.When these results were compared with AFS foundry standards, the chemical compositions and clay contents fall within theacceptable values while the moisture contents, green and dry compressive strengths and permeability valuesfall below the standards values. The low values of green and dry compressive strengths and permeability were unconnected with low moisture contents of the sands which can be improved upon appropriately. The other properties such as the grain structure, sizes and shape were within acceptable standards. The overall results suggested that the two sands are suitable for foundry works when appropriate measures are taken to improve on those properties that fall below the standard values. The use of the sands for commercial foundry productions will not only lead to creation of wealth and diversification of our economy, it may also lead to acceleration ofestablishment of small or medium scale castings companies within the locality with its economic benefits.
