Wax properties are of critical importance to foundries for the production of good castings. Once a specification has been agreed it is essential that compliance with the limits is maintained and supported by process and quality control.

Key properties are:

• Contraction and Cavitation
• Congealing Point or Melting Point
• Ash Content
• Hardness and Elasticity
• Viscosity
• Surface Finish
• Setting Rate
• Oxidation Stability
• Reclaimability

Recommended physical tests for the control of investment casting wax are:

• Melting (drop) Point
• Congealing Point
• Ash Content
• Penetration
• Viscosity

More information on suitable tests can be obtained at:

• www.cmfed.co.uk - Cast Metals Federation
• www.eicf.org - European Investment Caster's Federation
• www.investmentcasting.org - Investment Casting Institute