Sand wash is a type of casting surface defect characterized by the presence of rough or scabby surfaces near the ingates. It typically appears as lumps or uneven projections on the casting surface due to erosion of the mold wall during the initial flow of molten metal.
This erosion results in loose sand particles being carried into the casting cavity by the flowing metal, which solidifies along with it and leads to surface irregularities. Causes include:
- High pouring velocity
- Turbulence of molten metal
- Weak mold material strength
This defect is typically found close to the ingates or runners.