Investigation of Abuja Sands for Foundry Application

Abstract

The investigation of the properties of sands within the Abuja metropolis of the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, to ascertain their suitability for foundry applications is critical considering Abuja’s proximity to the Ajaokuta Steel Company, at Ajaokuta, Kogi State, Nigeria. The foundry industry in Nigeria is yet underdeveloped. However, the government’s determination to reduce overdependence on foreign goods to boost its economic base and embrace agriculture as an alternative source of economic booster is a good move to setting up foundries for manufacturing spare parts for industrial machinery and equipment. The results of the mechanical properties of the investigated Ushafa sand with moisture and clay content values of 5.8 and 25 % respectively, and permeability of 72 m/sec. exhibited green and dry compressive strengths of 72 and 108 kN/m2 while the Giri samples having moisture and clay content values of 4.2 and 14 % respectively and permeability values of 180 m/sec recorded green and dry compressive strengths of 76 and 78 kN/m2. These results indicate that the Abuja sands are most suitable for casting heavy grey steel.