Casting Contest

TPM proudly announces that its Pilot Nozzle with Flame Front is a finalist in the Investment Casting Institute’s prestigious Annual Casting Contest. Demonstrating advanced innovation, this precision investment casting is engineered for the demanding conditions of oil, gas, and petrochemical operations.

Measuring five inches by six inches and weighing seven pounds, the nozzle is cast in CK20 alloy for superior heat resistance. The assembly serves as a vital housing for ignition and monitoring systems, reliably supporting flame ionization, thermocouples, and optical detection equipment.

TPM’s customer sought an alternative to the traditionally manufactured nozzle, which was previously fabricated from multiple machined and welded components. Through several collaborative sessions, TPM and its client exchanged expert insights, aligning performance expectations with the efficiencies of the investment casting process. The result was a single-piece casting that eliminates assembly complexity, boosts reliability, and significantly lowers costs.

Key design features—including an internal chamber, countersunk holes, and an integrated thermowell extension—are cast directly into the part. This innovation removes the need for secondary machining, reducers, and welded assemblies. The new nozzle design streamlines installation with true plug-and-play functionality, all while maintaining full structural integrity.

By consolidating multiple functions into a single precision casting, TPM’s solution shortens lead times, enhances dimensional consistency, and eliminates potential leak paths or failure points. This project showcases the unique advantages of investment casting, transforming a complex, multi-step fabrication process into a high-performance, ready-to-install solution that delivers greater efficiency, reliability, and long-term value.