How to Embed Anchors in Cast Alloy
Alloys are two different metals that are merged to create a single metal that has better properties than the separate metals. For example, steel is an alloy made from iron and carbon. When manufacturers construct objects out of metal, they often rely on casting, which involves heating metal until it turns into liquid and then forming it into something else, typically using a mold. Some metal alloys need anchor screws embedded into them.
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Instructions
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Molding
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1
Measure the dimensions of the anchor. The cast alloy will need anchor holes in which the anchor can be screwed into the alloy after the alloy has been hardened. Embed the anchor in a mold, which will then form an impression of the anchor.
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2
Spray a cooling lubricant on the anchor mold so the mold does not heat to the point at which it deforms. Inject a molten alloy into the mold at high speed and pressure; this makes the casting as smooth and precise as the original piece. When the alloy cools and hardens, eject the part from the mold.
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3
Use this piece to create the screw hole for the anchor in the cast alloy in which you intend to embed the anchor. Use the metal casting process to create the alloy part.
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4
Spray the anchor piece with a cooling lubricant to protect it from the high temperature of the cast metal. The lubricants are made out of refined oils, polymers, waxes and various other substances.
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5
Embed the anchor into the still liquid cast alloy. This will allow the alloy to harden, creating a screw hole for the anchor.
Drilling
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6
Clamp the metal alloy down on the table so the drill does not pull up the cast alloy, leading to injuries.
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Use a self-centering punch to put a dip in the metal where you want to drill the anchor hole. The dip will make it easier for you to drill into the hardened cast alloy without the drill's moving out of place.
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Drill the hole into the cast alloy using a drill bit that will create the threading around which the anchor screw will wrap when you screw it into the cast alloy. Make sure the drill bit is the same diameter as the anchor, or slightly smaller, so the anchor fits into the screw hole.
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Test the anchor by screwing it into the screw hole to ensure the anchor fits. If the screw hole is too small, use a slightly bigger bit and make the hole bigger.
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10
Screw each anchor into the cast alloy.
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Tips & Warnings
Working with metal casting involves high temperatures, which can cause health problems for those working nearby.
References
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