A methodology for fine art formulation applied to investment casting moulds
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Date
10/2000Author
Ibrahim, Ahmad Rashdi Yan
Metadata
Abstract
This research concerns the development of a methodology for formulation in Fine Art,
Design and Craft practice. The methodology is applied to the choosing of formulations
for bronze and glass investments casting moulds in which a significant ingredient is
cuttlefish bone powder, but it is claimed to have an applicability beyond this particular
example. The methodology involves four steps:
• identifying key attributes (effects) which the required formulation must display,
• identifying the roles, shapes and sizes of the components of the formulation,
• finding a model which combines the component characteristics into a visualisation
of the formulation, referred to as a "microstructure drawing", and
• using the microstructure drawing to describe the behaviour of the formulation. The research approach taken is to search for a suitable set of formulations using a
traditional trial-and-error process. The key attributes required of the formulation are
defined in terms of the handling characteristics, and the mechanical integrity of the
hardened mould. The components are then characterised using micrographic images
and a set of symbols developed to represent their size, shape and function. Then a
visualisation of the formulation is developed by mixing symbols in proportion to the
amount used in the formulation. These microstructure drawings are then used to
describe the behaviour of the formulation. Conclusions are drawn as to the value of the microstructure drawing as an additional
"sense" which the practitioner can use when searching for a suitable formulation.
Comments are made on the generic aspects of the work, the feasibility of using
cuttlefish bone powder for investment casting moulds, and on the communicability of
the methodology.