The research group is involved in the research and development of advanced technologies for the aerospace, medical and automotive industries, including components for the energy industry. The focus is on ceramic shell casting technologies using the melt/burnable model method. An important area is the implementation of additive technologies for so-called hybrid technologies, namely in the field of 3D printing of the model, ceramic cores and filters. Development focuses on the choice and properties of materials used for 3D printing and the resulting quality of the models. A significant part of the activities is devoted to the numerical simulation of precision casting processes, the identification of boundary conditions and the verification of the simulation itself. Research is focused on the composition and properties of ceramic suspensions and sprinkles. The processes of interaction of cast metals with refractory materials, the effects of surface treatment of ceramic cores on wetting angles and on surface tension are studied. Process effects in the manufacture of ceramic shells on strength, permeability and cracking in the mould and in the castings are investigated. Research is also directed towards the casting of special high value-added materials such as superalloys, HEA alloys or Ti-based alloys. The working group is also involved in the training of practitioners and has established a co-operation with the EICF by organising an international course entitled EICF INVESTMENT CASTING MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY COURSE.

Head of the research team
Ing. Vladimír Krutiš, Ph.D.

Research team
prof. Ing. Milan Horáček, CSc.
Ing. Václav Kaňa, Ph.D.
Ing. Martin Myška, Ph.D.
Ing. Radim Jelínek