Journal of Material Sciences & Engineering

Progress in Net and Near Net Shape Manufacturing of Metallic Components using the Ohno Continuous Casting (OCC) Process

Abstract

Simbarashe Everson Fashu

The OCC products have the potential to be used in many industries due to the versatility and low cost of the manufacturing process. The process produces single crystal/unidirectional net, and near net products with excellent surface quality, controlled microstructure and enhanced properties. This article is an overview of the progress in OCC process since its inception in manufacturing of metallic components. The process, product range, potential and limitations are outlined. The process is now commercialized; and products for electronics, medical, joining, hard facing, shape memory, etc., can be fabricated. However, according to expectations, its use is still limited and potential applications including fabrication of structural materials for aerospace and automobile applications, production of large size ingots, purification of alloys and silicon crystal growth remain to be explored.