Hot Topping Validation

[evan_z]

I have been investigating Charpy test failures in our steel foundry recently and am evaluating our process. One item of concern is a change that was made a couple years ago to our hot topping. Can someone suggest a test that can be done to validate that the hot topping is still working properly? I have put out a call to the supplier, but haven't heard anything yet.

Thank you for your suggestions.

 

[EdStainless]

Solidification/cooling rate and depth of shrinkage are the first things that come to mind.
We used to measure both when we were making changes in molds or topping.

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P.E. Metallurgy, Plymouth Tube