Developments in Steel Castings in the Heavy Power Plant Industry

Though the application of steel castings in the field of the prime mover is selected as a basis for treatment, the opportunity is first taken of mentioning developments inside the foundry that appertain to manufacture and inspection. The trend towards more stringent service conditions has augmented the responsibility of the foundry for the production of castings free from defects. There are indications that the designer and user of castings can with advantage pursue and develop the tendency to break down designs into relatively simple constructions that can be fabricated together at a later stage, and examples of this type of construction are given. Where this trend is impracticable, a strong case can be made for the concentration of allied types of work in relatively few foundries. Mention is made of the trend of research as applied to steel castings, and the lasting importance of methods departments is stressed.