CASTING DEFECT:   Non Fills
CAUSES/CORRECTION:   
Incomplete burnout/insufficient time at peak burnout temperature.
Pattern improperly sprued/ too thin or long.
Metal too cool when cast.
Mold too cool when cast.
Insufficient metal by weight.

CASTING DEFECT:   Flash or "Finning" on castings
CAUSES/CORRECTION:   
Water to powder ratio too high/decrease water to within a range of 38-40/100.
Investment processed past recommended working time.
Flask disturbed while investment setting up.
Investment burnout cycle started before material was completely set. (Hold a minimum
of 1 ½ hours.)
Burnout cycle too rapid causing thermal shock of investment.
Flask allowed to dry and not remoisten before burnout.

CASTING DEFECT:   Dark rough castings which do not deoxidize in pickling solution.
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Burnout temperatures too high, do not exceed 1350 degrees F/732 degrees C peak
burnout temperature.
Metal overheated/Adjust to proper casting temperature.

CASTING DEFECT:   Nodules or bubbles
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Investment not properly mixed and vacuumed (consult mixing instructions).
Poor adhesion of investment to wax or plastic patterns. Use a suitable wetting agent.
Full vacuum not obtained. Check vacuum pump for proper oil level.

CASTING DEFECT:   Rough casting surface
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Improper water/powder ratio/Adjust to 38-40/100.
Flask heated too rapidly/Slow down rate of heating.
Surface roughness on wax patterns/Check original models and polish if necessary.
Pattern material trapped in mold cavity/Patterns may be improperly sprued causing
pattern material to boil within mold.

CASTING DEFECT:   Watermarks
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Investing cycle too rapid. Keep working time within 9 minutes.
Water too cold. Adjust to 75 degrees to 85 degrees F.
Excess water in mix. Stay within the required 38 to 40/100 water/powder ratio.

CASTING DEFFECT:   Investment Breakdown
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Too high water/powder ratio.
Metal too hot.
Mold too hot.
Flask placed in oven with insufficient setting time.

CASTING DEFECT:   Blowout
CAUSES/CORRECTION:
Water to powder ratio too high/decrease water to within a range of 38 to 40/100.
Flask heated too rapidly. Slow the rate of heating of the burnout cycle.