The ECOLOTEC process is based on the use of a water-soluble phenolic resin, condensed under alkaline conditions. The resin is the only binder component that has to be mixed with the sand. The resin does not contain any nitrogen, phosphorus or sulphur. All sand types (e.g. silica, chromite or chamotte) can be used successfully. To harden the mixed sand CO2 has to be gassed into the corebox. CO2 acts as a reaction partner with the resin, not as a catalyst.

Core production cycle times with ECOLOTEC are relatively short and comparable to Polyurethane Cold Box processes.

Cores made in ECOLOTEC offer high as-gassed strengths, and due to the high reactivity of the binder system, gassing times are short. ECOLOTEC cores do not need an extra purging cycle after gassing because carbon dioxide is non-hazardous.

Due to the ECOLOTEC chemistry, there is no need for the use of core coatings in many applications.

For the production of moulds and cores using a mechanical core blower or by hand filling. ECOLOTEC is suitable for ferrous and non-ferrous castings. Addition rates 1.8 - 2.5% of sand weight depending on sand AFS, quality and the type of core or mould being produced. CO2 gas consumption 1 - 2% B.O.S

		Non-flammable
		Very low free phenol and formaldehyde
		No isocyanates, peroxides, amines or sulphur-based compounds
		No noxious fumes during mixing and coremaking