Core Maker

Job Description

Position Summary

The Shell & ISO-Cure Core Maker is responsible for producing high-quality sand cores using shell core machines and ISO-cure (cold box) core making systems. This role ensures cores meet dimensional accuracy, strength, and surface finish requirements while maintaining safety, productivity, and environmental compliance standards.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with core making equipment, understands sand and resin systems, and is committed to quality and process control in a fast-paced foundry environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Core Production

• Set up and operate shell core machines (heated core boxes and resin-coated sand systems).
• Set up and operate ISO-cure (cold box) core machines using amine gas curing systems.
• Load sand hoppers and monitor sand/resin mixture consistency.
• Install and secure core boxes and tooling.
• Adjust machine settings for proper fill, cure time, and ejection.
• Apply core coatings as required and monitor drying processes.

Quality Control

• Inspect cores for:
  • Dimensional accuracy
  • Surface finish defects
  • Incomplete fill
  • Cracks or breakage
• Verify proper venting and core integrity.
• Use gauges and measuring tools to confirm tolerances.
• Segregate and report nonconforming cores.
• Work closely with molding and engineering teams to resolve defects.

Process Monitoring

• Monitor:
  • Sand temperature and flow
  • Resin ratios and catalyst levels
  • Amine gas pressures and cure times
• Perform routine cleaning of core boxes and vents.
• Assist in troubleshooting core-related casting defects.
• Participate in pattern and tooling changeovers.

Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Follow all safety procedures when handling resins and amine gases.
• Wear required PPE including respirators when required.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance.
• Maintain compliance with environmental regulations regarding emissions and chemical handling.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 2+ years of foundry core making experience preferred.
• Experience operating:
  • Shell core machines
  • ISO-cure / cold box core systems
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to read work instructions and technical drawings.
• Ability to work in high-heat and chemical-handling environments.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with automated core handling systems.
• Knowledge of sand testing and resin ratio control.
• Forklift certification.
• Familiarity with casting defect analysis related to core performance.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, bending, twisting, and lifting.
• Ability to work around heated tooling and chemical curing systems.
• Tolerance for industrial noise and elevated temperatures.
• Ability to wear respirator protection when required.

HyCast Foundry is a premier U.S. foundry specializing in the production of high-quality gray and ductile iron castings. Committed to safety, sustainability, and operational excellence, HyCast aims to drive innovation in the metal casting industry while fostering a collaborative and dynamic workplace culture.

HyCast Foundry is a premier U.S. foundry specializing in the production of high-quality gray and ductile iron castings. Committed to safety, sustainability, and operational excellence, HyCast aims to drive innovation in the metal casting industry while fostering a collaborative and dynamic workplace culture.