Hot tearing from scrap reuse can lead to fractures in silver castings even before the parts are subjected to mechanical or thermal stresses. This case study explains how contaminants introduced through improperly cleaned scrap increase the alloy's susceptibility to intergranular cracking during solidification. Read the full analysis to learn how to prevent these failures.
The comet effect from abrasives can appear during the final finishing stages, compromising the surface quality of otherwise defect-free jewelry. This case study explains how abrasive particles become embedded in the metal and create scratches, streaks and opaque areas. Read the full analysis to discover how to prevent these finishing defects.
Boric acid inclusions in casting can create hidden defects that often become visible only during finishing, heating or welding operations. This case study explains how flux residues are dragged into the mold during centrifugal casting and which preventive measures help avoid contamination. Read the full analysis to learn more.
Graphite inclusions in silver casting can lead to surface imperfections, scratches and small cavities that become visible during polishing. This case study explains how graphite particles are transferred during continuous casting and which preventive measures help achieve a mirror-like finish. Read the full analysis to learn more.
An investigation on lost-wax cast 925 silver components revealed surface scratches appearing after finishing operations. SEM analysis ruled out metallurgical defects and identified residual abrasive particles embedded on the surface during vibratory finishing. The issue can be reduced by selecting abrasives specifically suited for silver and by increasing material hardness through a prior heat-treatment process, improving finishing quality and scratch resistance.
Hard spots from scrap reuse can gradually appear even when initial castings show excellent quality. This case study explains how melting temperature, recycled scrap and alloy composition can promote Silicon-Iridium agglomerates that affect the surface quality of castings. Read the full analysis to discover effective prevention strategies.
Wax bubble casting defects can easily be mistaken for metallurgical or casting issues, leading to incorrect corrective actions. This case study explains how trapped air bubbles inside the wax create surface cavities on the final cast piece and how to prevent them through proper wax injection practices. Read the full analysis to learn more.
Silver casting oxide residues can accumulate at the bottom of the crucible during continuous casting, causing blockages and quality issues. This case study explains the role of oxidation, crucible conditions and melt protection in the formation of solid residues. Read the full analysis to learn how to prevent the problem.
Surface cavities on cast jewelry pieces often look like casting defects, but they actually originate from air bubbles trapped in the wax. We analyze a 14ct red gold ring under the microscope and explain how to recognize the issue and prevent it with 4 practical solutions.