The process we use to create metal objects by pouring hot, molten metal into a mold is called foundry casting. The sand used to form the mold is central to the process. However, the previous generation of foundry sand uses silica sand, which causes environmental problems. Nowadays, there is a superior option known as green sand.
Green sand (moulding sand) consists of sand, clay, and water mixture. The clay is very important — it binds the sand together, so that the mold is strong enough to hold the melted metal without breaking due to the heat. Not only is this alternative more Earth-friendly, but it is also easier to deploy and produces superior metal objects.
The best things about green sand is it is environmental friendly. Old foundry sand (OFS) often contains toxic contaminants that can harm the environment and the humans who handle it. But green sand is composed of natural materials that are safe for the planet and not dangerous to workers. Green sand allows foundries to protect the environment and create a safer environment for your workers.
Green sand is better than conventional sand and cheaper, hence changing the foundry industry. This ultimately translates to lower costs in production, along with energy reduction while it is better for the environment. Green sand also forms stronger molds, meaning the metal objects cast from them are better and require less finishing work. Excerpt from a letter to the editor submitted to TWI, regarding the impact new materials are having on foundries and the shift towards a better world.
The use of organic matter such as clay in the process of metal casting is significant in the formation of strong metal artifacts. It fills the sand to keep it in place and creates a mold solid enough to withstand the heat of melted metal. Old foundry sand is laden with harmful chemicals; organic materials are much less harmful to the environment. Haste to design and ended up learning foundries are a great way of creating better metal objects while also helping the Earth by using green sand.
I think one of the greatest advantages we can have from green sand is the saving on the budgets. Old foundry sand is replaced with green sand, cutting the foundries' expenses which allows them to save costs and increases their profits. And, green sand can be reused several times, which reduces waste and saves material costs. Green sand spares foundries money and the earth.