Don´t Hesitate to Use Vacuum Impregnation

3 Minute Read

I often meet with potential customers who are hesitant to implement a vacuum impregnation process for a variety of reasons. In this article, I will discuss the most common reasons as well as provide some explanation as to why and how a vacuum impregnation program can benefit your business.

1.     Impregnation is prescribed as a repair process of something that wasn´t done right the first time.

It is well known that micro porosity is an implicit condition of many die casting processes.  Micro porosity will depend of many different variables, some of which are in your control while some are not. Some of these variables include part design, part dimensions, tool wear out, process controls during the casting process, casting applications, among others.

Based on the above factors, many times you´ll find that the part drawing allows for one or even two impregnation attempts to eliminate undesired porosity. If the part drawing allows for impregnation then do not hesitate to explore the different options available. It is very likely that your company will save a lot of money in the mid to long run and will not have to worry about the high cost of having scrap.

2.     I do not have the cash to buy a vacuum impregnation system.

Impregnation has been used for many years, and it has evolved to become much more efficient at a lower cost. Consider exploring the different options - from refurbished batch systems to the newest systems available – there are various types of systems depending on your business needs and budget.

If your budget doesn´t support the acquisition of your own system or if your volume is low, an alternate solution is to outsource to a vacuum impregnation process center

3.     We had some leaking issues during the launch phase, but they will go away once the process is brought under control.

While this might be true, there is always the possibility for those issues to stay longer than you anticipate. Automotive parts such as cylinder heads and blocks, air conditioning compressors, pumps, and other parts that will be submitted to some type of pressure will most likely require impregnation that can go anywhere from 30% to 100% of your production.

4.     We are launching a new plant and have our hands full with the casting equipment; therefore we cannot handle a vacuum impregnation process.

If this is true and you are running out of time you can always turn to a process center to provide the vacuum impregnation service. But do not remain unprotected especially during the launch phase when you will want to get the most out of your production with the best quality. The first parts sent to your customer will tell a lot about your reliability as a supplier.

On the other hand, if your budget allows, purchasing your own vacuum impregnation system may be your best option.

My advice is don´t hesitate to implement a vacuum impregnation program or find a process center to do it for you. A vacuum impregnation program will save you money and time.

If you have any questions, please call Godfrey & Wing at +1.330.562.1440 or click here.