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SAG wants to perfect rheocasting
The Salzburg Aluminium Group is taking a further step towards technological innovation and sustainable mobility: a new research and test centre for rheocasting is being built at the founding site in Lend, Austria, which will drive forward the further development of this pioneering casting technology. CEO Karin Exner-Wöhrer explains the plans and prospects in an interview with EUROGUSS 365.
Rheocasting for complex geometries
Rheocasting is a semi-solid metal (SSM) casting process in which a metal alloy - usually aluminium - is transformed into a semi-solid state and then poured into a mould. Compared to conventional die casting processes, rheocasting offers several advantages. Reduced porosity leads to higher component density and load-bearing capacity, while the fine microstructure ensures better mechanical properties. At the same time, the improved flowability of the melt enables more precise production of complex geometries. The process is also economically efficient thanks to lower mould wear and reduced material costs. These factors can make rheocasting a key technology for the automotive industry, but also for mechanical engineering and aerospace.Strengthening competitiveness and market position
By investing in the new research and development centre, the Salzburger Aluminium Group is not only strengthening its innovative power, but also its position in the international market for lightweight components. The strategic decision to invest in the founding location of Lend also emphasises the long-term commitment to the region, says the company. In addition to the development of new applications for rheocasting, process efficiency and sustainability aspects will also be further optimised here in the future.EUROGUSS 365 newsletter
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With the combination of technological progress, industrial scaling and a sustainable focus, rheocasting can play a greater role in the mobility industry in the future. In this interview, SAG CEO Karin Exner-Wöhrer explains the challenges involved in this process and the opportunities arising from the investment.
Karin Exner-Wöhrer, CEO of the Salzburger Aluminium GroupMs Exner-Wöhrer, what were the reasons for setting up the research and development centre at the Lend site?
Karin Exner-Wöhrer: The topics of research and further development have always been very important to SAG. We have been carrying out intensive research and testing in the field of rheocasting over the last few years. As a result, we were the first to establish ourselves as a series producer on the market. Now our aim is to further expand our technological leadership in this area and to give research even more room - in the literal sense of the word.
You have already made rheocasting ready for series production. What technological challenges do you still face?
Karin Exner-Wöhrer: There are always new challenges when scaling up, which means we are researching new correlations and can continuously understand and optimise the process even better. We are working on refinements and improvements, such as the shot weight, and we are expanding our range of alloys.
You are planning to use rheocasting to open up new applications in the automotive industry and beyond. Which areas are you focussing on here?
Karin Exner-Wöhrer: We are thinking very broadly here. For example, we are focussing on chassis components for many types of vehicles - from electric cars and motorbikes to aircraft. CO2 cooling systems are also an issue. These have high requirements in terms of tightness and pressure resistance. Rheocasting can be a good solution for manufacturing the components here.
The new development centre will serve as a platform for cooperation with research institutions and industrial partners. How do you envisage this?
Karin Exner-Wöhrer: We already have an in-depth research partnership with the Montanuni Leoben and are in the process of establishing partnerships with other institutions. The transfer of expertise is important and profitable in terms of the depth of the research results.
