Foundry Gilsonite

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gilsonite foundry

Introduction to Gilsonite in Foundry

Gilsonite is widely recognized for its exceptional role in metal casting. Used as an additive in green sand and no-bake mold systems, Gilsonite improves surface finish, reduces defects, and enhances collapsibility. For foundry professionals seeking consistency and efficiency, Gilsonite is an indispensable material.

Why Gilsonite is a Game-Changer for Casting

In foundry sand mixtures, Gilsonite provides controlled volatility, high lustrous carbon output, and superior binding. It acts as a carbon additive, resin enhancer, and sand binder, delivering smoother surfaces and cleaner castings with fewer gas defects.

Key Technical Characteristics

  • Fixed Carbon: 75–85%

  • Volatile Matter: 10–20%

  • Ash Content: <5%

  • Moisture: <1%

  • Melting Point: 160°C – 220°C

  • Color: Dark black with high sheen

These characteristics make Gilsonite ideal for steel, iron, and non-ferrous metal casting.

Recommended Gilsonite Grades for Foundry

  • 200 Mesh Powder: For precision casting with high surface finish demands

  • 100 Mesh Powder: For general gray iron and ductile iron casting

  • High Carbon Low Ash Grade: For core-making and low-defect environments

Custom sizes are available based on furnace type and sand system.

Available Packaging Options

  • 25 kg paper bags (PE-lined)

  • 500 kg jumbo bags

  • 1 MT big bags with liner

  • Custom bulk packaging for factory-scale operations

All packaging is dust-free, moisture-resistant, and export-compliant.

Applications in Foundry Processes

Gilsonite is commonly used in:

  • Green Sand Molding – Improves collapsibility, reduces casting defects

  • No-Bake Molding Systems – Enhances sand-to-metal contact

  • Core Production – Increases carbon residue in core gases

  • Iron and Steel Casting – Reduces veining and surface blowholes

  • Precision Metal Casting – Ensures smoother, blacker finishes

How to Use Gilsonite in Foundry Sand Mixtures

  1. Blend with base sand and binder (at 2–5% addition rate)

  2. Mix uniformly to ensure consistent carbon content

  3. Adjust moisture content for green strength

  4. Recycle used sand with careful loss-on-ignition tracking

Gilsonite can be added directly to the mixer or pre-blended with seacoal or bentonite.

Performance Advantages in Casting Quality

  • High Lustrous Carbon Yield – Produces smoother casting surfaces

  • Reduces Defects – Eliminates gas holes, veining, scabbing

  • Improves Mold Collapsibility – Eases shakeout and reduces cleaning time

  • Better Flowability – Enhances compaction and molding

  • Stable Burnout Profile – Reduces odor and smoke vs. synthetic additives


Comparison with Other Carbon Additives

FeatureGilsoniteSeacoalPitch ResinGraphite
Natural MaterialYesYesNoYes
Burnout CleanlinessHighMediumLowMedium
Carbon ResidueHighMediumHighHigh
Odor & SmokeLowHighVery HighLow
Surface FinishExcellentGoodAverageGood

Gilsonite gives a better combination of casting quality, workability, and environmental compliance.

Compatibility with Foundry Binders and Additives

Gilsonite works well with:

  • Bentonite Clay

  • Furan and Phenolic Resins

  • Seacoal and Bituminous Additives

  • Synthetic Polymers and Coatings

Its thermal behavior complements various molding systems, both traditional and modern.

Handling, Safety & Environmental Considerations

  • Non-hazardous and non-toxic

  • Use dust collection during mixing to minimize airborne particles

  • Gloves and masks recommended for high-volume handling

  • Environmentally preferable to petroleum pitch and synthetic resins

Gilsonite is a safer, cleaner additive with better workplace outcomes.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Best Practices

  • Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly

  • Store in dry, cool environments

  • Avoid moisture and direct exposure to sunlight

  • Reseal opened bags tightly to prevent clumping

Industries Using Gilsonite-Based Casting

  • Automotive and Trucking Parts

  • Agricultural Machinery Casting

  • Railroad Components

  • Valve, Pump, and Pipe Casting

  • Steel and Non-Ferrous Foundries

Whether you produce brake drums or engine blocks, Gilsonite can help you do it better.

Our Global Distribution and Foundry Support

From our export points in Turkey (Mersin), UAE (Jebel Ali), and Iran (Bandar Abbas), we supply:

  • Bulk shipments for steel and iron foundries

  • Tailored grades for cast iron producers

  • Fast delivery across Europe, Asia, MENA, and Americas

With every shipment, you get consistency, documentation, and technical support.

Why Choose Us as Your Foundry Gilsonite Partner

  • Foundry-specific grades designed by engineers

  • Large volumes available year-round

  • Custom packaging and documentation

  • Support for green and no-bake sand systems

  • Trusted by major casting facilities worldwide

We help foundries pour cleaner, stronger, and smoother castings.

Conclusion

Gilsonite is transforming the foundry world by offering a natural, high-performance carbon additive. From improved casting finishes to safer working environments, its benefits are proven. Let us be your trusted Gilsonite supplier for industrial success in every mold.

FAQs

1. How much Gilsonite should I add to green sand?
Generally, 2% to 5% of the total sand mix, depending on desired casting finish.

2. Can Gilsonite replace all seacoal?
In many cases, yes. It can be used as a full or partial replacement.

3. Is Gilsonite safe for workers?
Yes. It is natural and emits significantly less smoke than other carbon additives.

4. What types of metal casting is Gilsonite best for?
Iron, steel, and some non-ferrous metal castings like brass or aluminum.

5. Do you offer technical support for usage?
Absolutely. Our team can help you integrate Gilsonite into your process efficiently.