Property testing method for ceramic core

By spraying gray particulate dye onto the surface of the ceramic core and combining it with optimized fixture design and a heating environment with an isolation hood, the problem of inaccurate depth structure detection in ceramic core testing was solved, achieving high-precision performance testing.

WO2026086219A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-30SHANGHAI WEDGE INVESTMENT CASTING CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
SHANGHAI WEDGE INVESTMENT CASTING CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-06-18
Publication Date
2026-04-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing technologies, when using 3D scanners to inspect the geometric shape of ceramic cores, there is a problem of inaccurate depth structure detection, especially the directional reflection and multiple reflections of structures such as pits, cavities, and wrinkles, which lead to poor imaging results.

Method used

Gray particulate dye, consisting of water, sugar, sodium chloride, quicklime powder, and graphite powder, was sprayed onto the surface of the ceramic core. The thickness was no more than 0.05 mm. Multiple scans were performed using a 3D scanner for data comparison. Combined with fixture optimization design and the heating environment of the isolation hood, the performance of the high-temperature and cooling processes was tested.

Benefits of technology

It improves the accuracy and reliability of ceramic core inspection, reduces light pollution, ensures the precision of inspection results, and can effectively determine the outer contour dimensions, gray particle dye thickness and removal cleanliness of ceramic cores, as well as high-temperature resistance and deformation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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    Figure CN2025101619_30042026_PF_FP_ABST
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Abstract

A property testing method for a ceramic core (5), comprising the following steps: step 1, fixing a ceramic core (5) onto a fixture, and using a 3D scanner to perform geometric shape scanning on the ceramic core (5) so as to obtain a first set of 3D scanning data; step 2, spraying a gray-scale particle dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core (5) to obtain a colored ceramic core (5), the gray-scale particle dye being prepared by mixing water, sugar, sodium chloride, hydrated lime powder and graphite powder; step 3, fixing the colored ceramic core (5) onto the fixture, and using the 3D scanner to perform geometric shape scanning on the colored ceramic core (5) so as to obtain a second set of 3D scanning data; and step 4, separating the gray-scale particle dye from the outer surface of the ceramic core (5) to obtain a decolorized ceramic core (5), and using the 3D scanner to perform geometric shape scanning on the decolorized ceramic core (5) so as to obtain a third set of 3D scanning data. The present method has good test performance particularly for pits, voids and wrinkles of the ceramic core (5).
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Description

Performance testing methods for ceramic cores Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of testing technology, specifically to the performance testing of ceramic cores. Background Technology

[0002] Ceramic cores are one of the most important raw and auxiliary materials in the field of high-temperature alloy precision casting. Especially in the casting of hollow blades at the hot end of aero engines and gas turbines, the performance of ceramic cores directly determines the cavity distribution of hollow blades, directly affects the distribution of blade wall thickness, and has a crucial impact on the yield of hollow cast blades.

[0003] When using structured light from a 3D scanner to scan the geometry of a ceramic core, there is a common problem of inaccurate detection of structures with depth. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for testing the performance of ceramic cores to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] The technical problem solved by this invention can be achieved by the following technical solutions:

[0006] A method for testing the performance of ceramic cores, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0007] Step 1: Fix the ceramic core onto the fixture, and use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core to obtain the first set of 3D scan data;

[0008] Step 2: Spray gray particulate dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core with a thickness not exceeding 0.05 mm to obtain a colored ceramic core. The gray particulate dye is composed of water, sugar, sodium chloride, quicklime powder, and graphite powder. The composition of the gray particulate dye is as follows by mass ratio: white sugar 3%-5%, sodium chloride 2%-3%, quicklime powder 40%-50%, graphite powder 1%-2%, and the balance is water.

[0009] Step 3: Fix the colored ceramic core onto the fixture, and use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the colored ceramic core to obtain the second set of 3D scan data;

[0010] Step 4: Remove the grayscale dye particles from the outer surface of the ceramic core to obtain the decolorized ceramic core. Use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the decolorized ceramic core to obtain the third set of 3D scanning data.

[0011] The 3D scanning data is the three-dimensional coordinate data of points on the outer surface of the ceramic core;

[0012] The second set of 3D scan data is compared with the three-dimensional coordinate data of points on the outer surface of the ceramic core obtained by 3D modeling to determine whether the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core meet the design requirements; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine the thickness of the gray-scale particle dye sprayed on the outer surface of the ceramic core; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the third set of 3D scan data to determine the cleanliness of the removal of gray-scale particle dye on the outer surface of the ceramic core.

[0013] Ceramic cores are characterized by smooth surfaces, complex structures, and strong reflectivity. The structured beams used in traditional 3D scanning technology are prone to directional and multiple reflections on the surface of ceramic cores, making it difficult to guarantee the accuracy of the detection results.

[0014] In particular, the pits, voids, and wrinkles on the ceramic core generate a large number of directional and multiple reflections, resulting in numerous bright spots, dark spots, and other bright areas.

[0015] This invention involves spraying a gray particulate dye onto the outer surface of a ceramic core. Firstly, the gray particulate dye gives the outer surface of the ceramic core a dark color and a frosted texture, which scatters and absorbs light penetrating into the deep structure, thereby improving optical anti-interference capabilities, enhancing imaging effects, and ultimately improving the accuracy of detection results. The gray particulate dye of this invention has low component cost, strong granulation, and, importantly, is easy and clean to remove, allowing for removal via water rinsing.

[0016] Furthermore, the gray-scale particle dye gives the outer surface of the ceramic core a granular, frosted texture, which can effectively reduce highlights, bright spots, and dark spots, thereby reducing light pollution, improving imaging effects, and ultimately improving the accuracy of detection results.

[0017] It has excellent detection performance, especially for pits, voids, and wrinkles on ceramic cores.

[0018] Preferably, the clamp includes a support column with a square cross-section, and each of the four side walls of the support column has at least two parallel sliding grooves with outward openings. The clamp also includes a cantilever device, the front end of which is connected to an annular component. The annular component has a central hole for inserting the end of a ceramic core, and the annular component has through bolt holes that are threaded into the bolt holes to secure the end of the ceramic core. The rear end of the cantilever device is connected to a U-shaped mounting part, which includes two mounting brackets. The inner sides of the two mounting brackets are provided with sliders that match the sliding grooves. The cantilever device is detachably connected to the support column through the sliding grooves and the sliders. The angle between the sliding groove and the horizontal plane is an acute angle, and the plane containing the annular component forms an obtuse angle with the plane containing the mounting part. The obtuse angle is the supplementary angle of the acute angle. This invention optimizes the structure of the clamp, making installation and disassembly very convenient. Furthermore, the position of the cantilever device can be adjusted by selecting the connected slide, thus accommodating ceramic cores of different geometric heights. In addition, this invention defines the position of the annular component and the mounting part, thereby improving the stress on the cantilever device and making the ceramic core more stably fixed on the cantilever device.

[0019] Preferably, the device also includes an isolation cover and a chassis. The support column stands in the middle of the chassis, and the isolation cover covers the support column. The bottom of the isolation cover has an opening, which is closed by the chassis. This utilizes the isolation cover and chassis to construct a closed structure. On the one hand, this reduces the influence of environmental factors on the test results; on the other hand, the closed structure creates a closed heating environment for the ceramic core, allowing for testing of the ceramic core's performance during heating, cooling, or at high temperatures.

[0020] As a preferred option, the performance testing method for ceramic cores also includes the following steps:

[0021] Step 5: Install an isolation cover on the fixture so that the ceramic core is inside the isolation cover and the 3D scanner is outside the isolation cover;

[0022] Step 6: Gradually raise the temperature inside the isolation enclosure to a specified temperature, which is one of 100℃-200℃. After reaching the specified temperature, maintain the specified temperature for 1 hour. During the temperature rise, perform a geometric shape scan every 5℃ to obtain the fourth set of 3D scan data. During the maintenance of the specified temperature, perform a geometric shape scan every 20 minutes to obtain the fifth set of 3D scan data.

[0023] Step 7: Remove the isolation cover to allow the temperature of the ceramic core to gradually decrease until it reaches room temperature. After the temperature of the ceramic core reaches room temperature, perform a geometric shape scan to obtain the sixth set of 3D scan data.

[0024] The fourth set of 3D scan data was compared with the second set to determine if the ceramic core had any cracks or defects. The fifth set of 3D scan data was compared with the second set to determine the high-temperature resistance of the ceramic core. The sixth set of 3D scan data was compared with the first set to determine if the deformation of the ceramic core met the design requirements. This process tested the performance of the ceramic core during heating, at high temperatures, and after cooling.

[0025] Preferably, there are an even number of cantilever devices, arranged in pairs. One cantilever device in each pair is located above the support column, serving as the upper cantilever; the other cantilever device is located below the support column, serving as the lower cantilever. The upper end of the ceramic core is inserted into the annular component of the upper cantilever, and the lower end is inserted into the annular component of the lower cantilever. A plastic sheet is sandwiched between the end of the ceramic core and the bolt. The melting temperature of the plastic sheet is lower than the specified temperature. This allows the plastic sheet to gradually melt as the temperature rises, creating space for the ceramic core and ensuring sufficient and unrestricted thermal expansion and contraction, thereby making the test data more accurate.

[0026] Preferably, the insulating cover is a quartz glass cover, which allows light to pass through while providing heat insulation.

[0027] Preferably, the support column and cantilever device are made of ceramic material that can withstand temperatures up to 1700℃. This allows the fixture to be used not only during testing but also during production. Alternatively, ceramic cores can be produced directly using the fixture, and then the freshly produced cores can be tested directly on the fixture. This not only eliminates the need for heating but also allows for higher test temperatures, providing data at higher temperatures.

[0028] As another preferred option, the following steps are used instead of steps 1 and 2: Step a. Use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core at high temperature after production to obtain the seventh set of 3D scanning data; Step b. Gradually reduce the temperature of the ceramic core to 60℃-70℃, and spray gray particulate dye on the outer surface of the ceramic core to obtain a colored ceramic core.

[0029] The seventh set of 3D scanning data was compared with the second set of 3D scanning data to determine whether the ceramic core had surface shrinkage defects. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. Wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 is a reference diagram of the fixture in use when installing a ceramic core;

[0032] Figure 2 is a side view of the structure in Figure 1;

[0033] Figure 3 is a top view of the structure in Figure 1;

[0034] Figure 4 is a reference diagram of the fixture in use when installing two ceramic cores;

[0035] Figure 5 is a top view of the clamp when installing four sets of cantilever devices.

[0036] Symbol explanation: 1. Support column; 2. Chassis; 3. Isolation cover; 4. Cantilever device; 5. Ceramic core. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more readily understood, the specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0039] Secondly, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the schematic diagrams. When detailing the embodiments of the present invention, for ease of explanation, the cross-sectional views illustrating the device structure will be partially enlarged, not according to the usual scale. Furthermore, the schematic diagrams are merely examples and should not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. In addition, actual fabrication should include three-dimensional spatial dimensions of length, width, and depth.

[0040] Furthermore, the term "an embodiment" or "embodiment" as used herein refers to a specific feature, structure, or characteristic that may be included in at least one implementation of the present invention. The phrase "in an embodiment" appearing in different places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a single embodiment or an embodiment selectively excluded from other embodiments.

[0041] Example 1, referring to Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, describes a performance testing method for ceramic cores, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Fixing the ceramic core 5 on a fixture and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core 5, obtaining a first set of 3D scan data. Step 2: Spraying gray-scale particulate dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a colored ceramic core. The gray-scale particulate dye is composed of a mixture of water, sugar, sodium chloride, quicklime powder, and graphite powder. Step 3: Fixing the colored ceramic core on a fixture and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the colored ceramic core, obtaining a second set of 3D scan data. Step 4: Removing the gray-scale particulate dye from the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a decolorized ceramic core, and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the decolorized ceramic core, obtaining a third set of 3D scan data.

[0042] The grayscale dye particles are very thin, so the second set of 3D scan data can be directly used as the geometric shape data for the ceramic core 5. The thickness of the grayscale dye particles does not exceed 0.05mm. The degree of removal of the grayscale dye particles can be determined by comparing the third set of 3D scan data with the first set of 3D scan data. If the removal is not complete, rinsing continues until clean. The second set of 3D scan data is compared with the three-dimensional coordinate data of the points on the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 obtained from 3D modeling to determine whether the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core 5 meet the design requirements; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine the thickness of the grayscale dye particles sprayed on the outer surface of the ceramic core 5; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the third set of 3D scan data to determine the degree of removal of the grayscale dye particles on the outer surface of the ceramic core 5.

[0043] The clamp includes a square-shaped support column 1, with at least two parallel, outward-facing grooves on each of its four side walls. The clamp also includes a cantilever device 4, with a ring-shaped component connected to its front end. The ring-shaped component has a central hole for inserting the end of a ceramic core 5, and through bolt holes for threaded connections to the bolt holes, which are used to press the end of the ceramic core 5. The rear end of the cantilever device 4 is connected to a U-shaped mounting portion, which includes two mounting brackets. The inner sides of the two mounting brackets are equipped with sliders that match the grooves. The cantilever device 4 is detachably connected to the support column 1 via the grooves and the sliders. This invention optimizes the structure of the clamp, making installation and disassembly very convenient. Furthermore, the position of the cantilever device 4 can be adjusted by selecting the connected groove, thus adapting to ceramic cores 5 with different geometric shapes and heights.

[0044] Example 2, a performance testing method for ceramic cores, includes the following steps: Step 1, fixing the ceramic core 5 on a fixture, and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a first set of 3D scan data. Step 2, spraying gray-scale particulate dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a colored ceramic core, wherein the gray-scale particulate dye is composed of a mixture of water, sugar, sodium chloride, quicklime powder, and graphite powder. Step 3, fixing the colored ceramic core on a fixture, and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the colored ceramic core to obtain a second set of 3D scan data. Step 4, removing the gray-scale particulate dye from the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a decolorized ceramic core, and using a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the decolorized ceramic core to obtain a third set of 3D scan data. Step 5, installing an isolation cover 3 over the fixture, placing the ceramic core 5 inside the isolation cover 3, and placing the 3D scanner outside the isolation cover 3. The isolation cover 3 is a quartz glass cover, thus providing heat insulation while allowing light to pass through. Step 6: Gradually raise the temperature inside the isolation cover 3 to the specified temperature. After reaching the specified temperature, maintain the specified temperature for 1 hour. During the heating process, perform a geometric shape scan every 5°C increase to obtain the fourth set of 3D scan data. During the maintenance of the specified temperature, perform a geometric shape scan every 20 minutes to obtain the fifth set of 3D scan data. The specified temperature can be set according to the temperature resistance requirements of the ceramic core 5, usually between 100°C and 200°C. Step 7: Remove the isolation cover 3 and gradually lower the temperature of the ceramic core 5 until room temperature. After the temperature of the ceramic core 5 reaches room temperature, perform a geometric shape scan to obtain the sixth set of 3D scan data. In this embodiment, the isolation cover 3 and the chassis 2 are also included. The support column 1 stands in the middle of the chassis 2, and the isolation cover 3 covers the support column 1. The bottom of the isolation cover 3 has an opening, which is closed by the chassis 2. The heating device can be set on the chassis 2. Alternatively, the chassis 2 can have a through hole, and a furnace head is provided below the through hole to heat the space inside the isolation cover 3. The support column 1 is located at the center of the chassis 2, and preferably has at least three through holes, which are arranged at equal intervals and form a ring around the central axis of the support column 1. The fourth set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine whether the ceramic core 5 has cracks or defects; the fifth set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine the high-temperature resistance of the ceramic core 5; and the sixth set of 3D scan data is compared with the first set of 3D scan data to determine whether the deformation of the ceramic core 5 meets the design requirements.

[0045] Example 3, based on the detection methods of Examples 1 and 2, replaces steps 1 and 2 with the following steps: Step a. Use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core 5 at high temperature after production, obtaining a seventh set of 3D scan data. Compare the seventh set of 3D scan data with the second set of 3D scan data to determine whether the ceramic core 5 has surface shrinkage defects. Here, replacing steps 1 and 2 means removing steps 1 and 2 from Examples 1 and 2, replacing them with steps a and b, and retaining the remaining steps. In this Example 3, because step 1 is removed, the first set of 3D scan data will not be generated, and the third set of 3D scan data can be used to replace the first set of 3D scan data to determine the performance of the ceramic core 5.

[0046] The ceramic core 5 is directly formed on the fixture. The freshly produced ceramic core 5 is at a high temperature, typically exceeding 200℃. Step b. Gradually lower the temperature of the ceramic core 5 to 60℃-70℃, and then spray gray-scale particulate dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core 5 to obtain a colored ceramic core. On one hand, the gray-scale particulate dye can accelerate the cooling of the ceramic core 5; on the other hand, it can accelerate the evaporation of water molecules in the gray-scale particulate dye, thereby preventing the gray-scale particulate dye from flowing and resulting in more uniform spraying. The support column 1 and the cantilever device 4 are preferably made of ceramic material resistant to 1700℃. This material ensures that all components of the fixture have good thermal shock resistance during production, especially during heat exposure.

[0047] In the above embodiments, there are an even number of cantilever devices 4, and they are arranged in pairs. One cantilever device 4 in the same group is located above the support column 1, serving as the upper cantilever; the other cantilever device 4 is located below the support column 1, serving as the lower cantilever. The upper end of the ceramic core 5 is inserted into the annular component of the upper cantilever, and the lower end is inserted into the annular component of the lower cantilever. In embodiment 2, a plastic sheet is sandwiched between the end of the ceramic core 5 and the bolt. The melting temperature of the plastic sheet is lower than the specified temperature. This allows the plastic sheet to gradually melt as the temperature rises, making room for the ceramic core 5 and ensuring sufficient and unrestricted thermal expansion and contraction of the ceramic core 5, thereby making the test data more accurate. The thickness of the plastic sheet is preferably 0.1mm-0.15mm.

[0048] In the above embodiments, the composition of the gray particulate dye is as follows (by mass): 3%-5% white sugar, 2%-3% sodium chloride, 40%-50% quicklime powder, 1%-2% graphite powder, with the remainder being water. This composition is low-cost, highly granular, and, more importantly, easy and clean to remove, allowing for removal by water rinsing. The warm brine rinse further improves removal efficiency. Preferably, a metal mesh is provided between the nozzle and the ceramic core 5, and the metal mesh is connected to the electrodes of an electrostatic generator. This allows the gray particulate dye to become charged during spraying. On one hand, it can electrostatically adhere to the ceramic core 5, thereby improving the adhesion of the gray particulate dye. On the other hand, the gray particulate dye particles repel each other due to electrostatic forces, resulting in more uniform spraying and a thinner coating.

[0049] In the above embodiments, the grooves are divided into two types: one type is a clockwise inclined groove, called a downward inclined groove; the other type is a counterclockwise inclined groove, called an upward inclined groove. Downward and upward inclined grooves are formed on any side wall of the support column 1. The upward inclined grooves on the same side wall of the support column 1 are evenly spaced, filling the side wall to form a first tooth-like structure; the downward inclined grooves on the same side wall of the support column 1 are evenly spaced, filling the side wall to form a second tooth-like structure; the first and second tooth-like structures intersect on the side wall of the support column 1 to form a diamond-shaped grid structure. This allows for the insertion of more cantilever devices 4, thereby increasing the number of ceramic cores 5 participating in the test. More importantly, the orientation of the cantilever can be changed by utilizing the different directions of the grooves, thus preventing interference between the ceramic cores 5. At least one row of the intersection points of the first and second tooth-like structures is located at the edges of the two side walls of the support column 1. This increases the opening area by utilizing the staggered points, thereby reducing the difficulty of inserting the cantilever device 4.

[0050] In the above embodiments, the angle between the slide and the horizontal plane is an acute angle, and the plane containing the annular component forms an obtuse angle with the plane containing the mounting part. The obtuse angle is the supplementary angle of the acute angle. The weight of the cantilever device 4, along with the ceramic core 5 to be tested held on the cantilever device 4, is transferred to the support column 1. According to the principle of force decomposition, the downward vertical gravity is decomposed into two components along the inclination angle and perpendicular to the inclination angle. Therefore, the heavier the weight of the cantilever device 4 and the ceramic core 5 to be tested, the greater the force decomposed backward along the inclination angle. The force backward along the inclination angle firmly holds the cantilever device 4 on the support column 1 and prevents it from falling off, thus meeting the requirement of the cantilever device 4 being firmly installed on the support column 1.

[0051] In the above embodiments, the upper and lower edges of the mounting bracket are each provided with flanges extending toward the other mounting bracket, and these flanges serve as the sliders. Having two sliders on the same mounting bracket can distribute the weight of the cantilever device 4, making the connection of the cantilever device 4 to the support column 1 more stable.

[0052] In the above embodiments, the outer contour of the cross-section of the annular component is square, and each of the four side walls of the annular component has a bolt hole. The width of the cantilever device 4 gradually decreases from the rear end to the front end, and the middle part is arc-shaped, located on the right side biased towards the central axis; the middle part of the cantilever device 4 connects to the middle of two adjacent bolt holes of the annular component. The middle part of the cantilever device 4 and the annular component form an acute angle, and the central axis of the central hole of the annular component is parallel to the central axis of the support column 1. The advantage of this connection is that it separates the two operating areas for tightening the rear bolt and the right bolt from the arm of the cantilever, thereby improving the convenience of operation.

[0053] In the above embodiments, the inspection frequency should be ≥5 pieces / batch, and for batch production conditions, the inspection frequency should be ≥2 pieces / batch. The 3D scanner preferably uses structured light scanning with blue light to determine the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core 5 under six-point positioning conditions. In addition to geometric shape inspection, surface penetration testing can also be performed on the batch of ceramic cores 5 to be inspected to determine that the ceramic core 5 is free from defects such as surface shrinkage cavities and cracks.

[0054] In the above embodiments, the pulling rate and pulling distance can also be tested during the heating process. The data at each point can be compared with the second set of data or the first set of data to evaluate the deformation of the ceramic core 5; the maximum deformation should be <d / 4, where d is the tolerance zone of the casting wall thickness. If the above conditions are not met, the entire batch of ceramic cores 5 shall be scrapped.

[0055] In the above embodiments, the data after cooling can be compared with the data before heating to help determine whether there are penetrating cracks. For ceramic cores 5 with surface cracks, the cracked areas should be cut after surface blueing. The crack depth should be less than 0.5 mm; otherwise, they should be scrapped.

[0056] In the above design, the ceramic core 5 of the batch to be tested has rounded rectangular structures at both ends. One end of the rounded rectangle has a circular groove corresponding to the bolt head on its side wall. The beneficial effect is that it is easier for the bolt head and the groove to fit together to fix the core more firmly.

[0057] In the above design, the upper end of the ceramic core 5 to be tested is fixed on the cantilever device 4, and the lower end is attached with a plastic sheet and clamped in the middle by four bolts. The plastic sheet will vaporize at high temperature, thus maintaining a gap of 0.1 to 0.15 mm between the rounded rectangular side wall at the lower end and the four bolt heads. The beneficial effect of this design is that it can restrict the radial movement of the ceramic core 5, and allow the ceramic core 5 to expand and contract in the axial direction at high temperature.

[0058] In the above design, before the ceramic core 5 of the batch to be tested undergoes a heating and cooling process that simulates the high-temperature casting process in the heating device, the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core 5 are first determined by blue light scanning under six-point positioning conditions. Then, the surface penetrant inspection is conducted to confirm that the ceramic core 5 has no defects such as surface shrinkage cavities and cracks. Then, it is subjected to heat exposure in the heating device, which simulates the high-temperature casting process. After the heat exposure is completed, it is naturally cooled, and the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core 5 are determined again by blue light scanning. The results are compared with those before the heat exposure, and the maximum deformation is used to determine whether it meets the qualification conditions. The ceramic core 5 that meets the deformation requirements continues to undergo surface penetrant inspection. If surface cracks are found, the surface is first blue-penetrated, and then the cracked part is cut off. The qualification is determined based on the crack depth.

[0059] The beneficial effects of the above design are that by placing the ceramic core 5 to be tested into the heating device and performing the same heating process as casting high-temperature alloy hollow blades, the outer contour dimensions and surface crack conditions of the ceramic core 5 before and after this process are recorded and compared to determine the qualification status of the ceramic core 5. This shortens the development cycle of the high-temperature alloy hollow blade casting process, greatly reduces the loss of alloy materials, production capacity, and time caused by the mismatch of the ceramic core 5, and can significantly improve the casting qualification rate.

[0060] Furthermore, thermal exposure is implemented. For the batch of ceramic cores 5 to be inspected for equiaxed castings, a baking furnace is used as the heating device. After the thermal exposure process is completed, the cooled batch of ceramic cores 5 is removed for inspection.

[0061] Furthermore, thermal exposure is implemented. For the batch of ceramic cores 5 to be inspected, which are used for directional, single-crystal castings, a single-crystal furnace is used as the heating device, and the testing device is placed on the crystallizer. After cooling, the batch of ceramic cores 5 to be inspected is removed for inspection.

[0062] The above design determines the type of heating device based on the intended use of the ceramic core 5 in the batch to be inspected. Its beneficial effect is that the ceramic core 5 to be inspected is closer to the real high-temperature casting process, making the test results more realistic and effective. It can be used to guide the high-temperature alloy hollow blade casting process, reduce the loss of alloy materials, production capacity, and time caused by the mismatch of the ceramic core 5, and significantly improve the casting qualification rate.

[0063] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: all components of the testing device are made of ceramic material that can withstand 1700℃, and the testing device has good thermal shock resistance when the ceramic core 5 to be tested is subjected to thermal exposure in the heating device.

[0064] The beneficial effect of the present invention is that the protective cover is provided to cover the support rod, cantilever, and ceramic core 5 to be tested together on the base, which isolates the airflow and pollutant interference of the measurement environment, simulates the actual working environment of the ceramic core 5, and thus provides a direct and accurate evaluation of the performance of the ceramic core 5 for precision casting of hollow blades.

[0065] The beneficial effects of the present invention are that by implementing the detection method of ceramic core 5 for precision casting of hollow blades, the loss of alloy materials, production capacity and time caused by mismatch of ceramic core 5 can be reduced, and the casting qualification rate can be significantly improved, and the development cycle of high temperature alloy hollow blade casting process can be shortened.

[0066] The above design determines the heating method, heating rate, and final temperature after heating based on the intended use of the ceramic core 5 in the batch to be inspected. Its beneficial effect is that the ceramic core 5 to be inspected is closer to the real high-temperature casting process, making the test results more realistic and effective. It can be used to guide the high-temperature alloy hollow blade casting process, reduce alloy material loss, production capacity loss, and time loss caused by the mismatch of ceramic core 5, and significantly improve the casting qualification rate.

[0067] Furthermore, in order to provide a concise description of exemplary embodiments, not all features of actual embodiments may be omitted, i.e., those features that are not relevant to the currently considered best mode for carrying out the invention, or those features that are not relevant to implementing the invention.

[0068] It should be understood that numerous specific implementation decisions can be made during the development of any practical implementation, such as in any engineering or design project. Such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but for those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from this disclosure, the development effort will be a routine task in design, manufacturing, and production without requiring extensive experimentation.

[0069] It should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention, and all such modifications or substitutions should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for detecting the properties of a ceramic core, characterized in that Includes the following steps: Step 1: Fix the ceramic core onto the fixture, and use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core to obtain the first set of 3D scan data; Step 2: Spray gray particulate dye onto the outer surface of the ceramic core with a thickness not exceeding 0.05 mm to obtain a colored ceramic core. The gray particulate dye is composed of water, sugar, sodium chloride, quicklime powder, and graphite powder. The composition of the gray particulate dye is as follows by mass ratio: white sugar 3%-5%, sodium chloride 2%-3%, quicklime powder 40%-50%, graphite powder 1%-2%, and the balance is water. Step 3: Fix the colored ceramic core onto the fixture, and use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the colored ceramic core to obtain the second set of 3D scan data; Step 4: Remove the grayscale dye particles from the outer surface of the ceramic core to obtain the decolorized ceramic core. Use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the decolorized ceramic core to obtain the third set of 3D scanning data. The 3D scanning data is the three-dimensional coordinate data of points on the outer surface of the ceramic core; The second set of 3D scan data is compared with the three-dimensional coordinate data of points on the outer surface of the ceramic core obtained by 3D modeling to determine whether the outer contour dimensions of the ceramic core meet the design requirements; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine the thickness of the gray-scale particle dye sprayed on the outer surface of the ceramic core; the first set of 3D scan data is compared with the third set of 3D scan data to determine the cleanliness of the removal of gray-scale particle dye on the outer surface of the ceramic core.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein The clamp includes a support column with a square cross-section. Each of the four side walls of the support column has at least two parallel, outward-facing sliding grooves. The clamp also includes a cantilever device. The front end of the cantilever device is connected to an annular component. The annular component has a central hole for inserting the end of a ceramic core. The annular component has through-hole bolt holes, with internal threads for tightening bolts to the end of the ceramic core. The rear end of the cantilever device is connected to a U-shaped mounting portion. The mounting portion includes two mounting brackets, with sliders matching the sliding grooves on their inner sides. The cantilever device is detachably connected to the support column via the sliding grooves and the sliders. The angle between the sliding groove and the horizontal plane is acute, and the plane containing the annular component forms an obtuse angle with the plane containing the mounting portion. The obtuse angle is the supplementary angle to the acute angle.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein It also includes an isolation cover and a chassis. The support column stands in the middle of the chassis, and the isolation cover is placed over the support column. The bottom of the isolation cover has an opening, which is closed by the chassis.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein It also includes the following steps: Step 5: Install an isolation cover on the fixture so that the ceramic core is inside the isolation cover and the 3D scanner is outside the isolation cover; Step 6: Gradually raise the temperature inside the isolation enclosure to a specified temperature, which is one of 100℃-200℃. After reaching the specified temperature, maintain the specified temperature for 1 hour. During the temperature rise, perform a geometric shape scan every 5℃ to obtain the fourth set of 3D scan data. During the maintenance of the specified temperature, perform a geometric shape scan every 20 minutes to obtain the fifth set of 3D scan data. Step 7: Remove the isolation cover to allow the temperature of the ceramic core to gradually decrease until it reaches room temperature. After the temperature of the ceramic core reaches room temperature, perform a geometric shape scan to obtain the sixth set of 3D scan data. The fourth set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine whether there are cracks or defects in the ceramic core; the fifth set of 3D scan data is compared with the second set of 3D scan data to determine the high temperature resistance of the ceramic core; and the sixth set of 3D scan data is compared with the first set of 3D scan data to determine whether the deformation of the ceramic core meets the design requirements.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein The cantilever devices are in even numbers, and are arranged in pairs. One cantilever device in the same group is located at the upper part of the support column, serving as the upper cantilever; the other cantilever device is located at the lower part of the support column, serving as the lower cantilever. The upper end of the ceramic core is inserted into the annular component of the upper cantilever, and the lower end is inserted into the annular component of the lower cantilever. A plastic sheet is sandwiched between the end of the ceramic core and the bolt, and the melting temperature of the plastic sheet is lower than the specified temperature.

6. The method of claim 3, wherein The isolation cover is a quartz glass cover.

7. The method of claim 2-6, wherein The support columns and cantilever devices are made of ceramic materials that can withstand temperatures up to 1700°C.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein Replace steps 1 and 2 with the following steps: Step a. Use a 3D scanner to scan the geometric shape of the ceramic core at high temperature after production to obtain the seventh set of 3D scanning data; Step b. Gradually reduce the temperature of the ceramic core until it reaches 60℃-70℃, and spray gray particulate dye on the outer surface of the ceramic core to obtain a colored ceramic core. The seventh set of 3D scanning data was compared with the second set of 3D scanning data to determine whether the ceramic core had surface shrinkage defects.

Citation Information

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