
Foundry Gilsonite: Frequently Asked Questions
How much gilsonite replaces sea coal? Usually less gilsonite is needed than sea coal because of its higher…
Foundry grade gilsonite for green sand: lustrous carbon, dosage, sea coal replacement and defect control.

How much gilsonite replaces sea coal? Usually less gilsonite is needed than sea coal because of its higher…

Aluminium, copper and brass castings are poured at lower temperatures than iron, so less carbon additive is needed.…

Steel castings present different challenges from iron. Pouring temperatures are higher and carbon pick-up can be a concern.

Grey iron castings — engine blocks, brake discs, pump housings — are produced in large volumes in green…

Ductile (nodular) iron castings are used in automotive, pipe and machinery parts. They need clean surfaces and controlled…

Good storage keeps gilsonite free-flowing and safe. Jumbo bags can be discharged into silos for automatic dosing. Keep…

Foundries are under pressure to reduce smoke, odour and emissions. The choice of carbon additive matters. When hot…

Carbon additives affect several casting defects. Getting the level right is key. Monitor LOI, volatile content and casting…

Foundry gilsonite is offered in several particle sizes. Each suits a different need. For precision castings and fine…

Many foundries buy pre-mixed blends of bentonite and carbon additives. Gilsonite is an excellent carbon component for these…

Besides green sand, gilsonite is used in some core sands and refractory coatings. Small additions of gilsonite to…

Burn-on and metal penetration create rough casting surfaces that need costly grinding and shot blasting. Gilsonite releases hydrocarbons…
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Black powder | Visual |
| Particle size | 100 – 300 mesh | Sieve |
| Volatile matter | 55 – 75 % | ASTM D3175 |
| Ash content, max | 5 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 200 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Typical dosage | 0.3 – 1.0 % (iron) | |
| Packing | 25 kg bags palletized; 1 MT jumbo bags for blending plants. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.
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