Foundries

SILMACO possess a wide range of high performance liquid and powdered sodium silicates especially designed for the foundry industry. The use of sodium silicate based binder systems promotes cleaner foundry environments because these binder systems are non-toxic, produce essentially no fumes, are odor-free and are easy to use.

The moulds used in foundries are often made on the basis of sand. One of the easiest mould making processes for foundries to use is the sodium silicate / CO2 process. In this process, an appropriate sodium silicate is mixed with the sand. The mixture of sand and silicate is given an initial set by injecting CO2 gas under pressure through the mould. The initial hardening is caused by a chemical reaction between the CO2 gas and the sodium silicate. The alkali of the latter is partially neutralized, forming a silica gel which binds the sand particles together in a stiff mass. Later, as the mix loses moisture, further bond strength is provided. Another method for obtaining this partial neutralization and hardening of the sodium silicate is the use of organic esters, which are added in very small amounts.

In our well equipped mixing division we are able to prepare tailor-made sodium silicate foundry binders. Often certain organic materials, such as sugars, are mixed in the silicate to provide special properties.

Principal Benefits

Tailor made products

Our liquid silicates can be adjusted regarding SiO2/Na2O ratio and solid content to meet the needs of your formulation. Our sodium silicate powders are available in different ratio's and can be grinded towards the particle size needed to obtain the reaction speed you are looking for. In our well equipped mixing division we are able to prepare your tailor-made sodium silicate foundry binders.

Easy and Safe to handle

Sodium silicate binder systems are non-toxic, produce essentially no fumes and are odor free. Cleanup is also easy since sodium silicates are water soluble.

Customized Silicates

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About Silmaco.

Silmaco is a family business with more than 30 years of experience in the production of high-quality and customized silicates. Our flexibility, focus on innovation and quality guarantees your company a carefree service and the most appropriate silicate for your application.

40 people

100 000 T/y of Sodium Silicates

Selling over 5 continents and in 60 countries