Frequently Asked Questions

• Will forging after the initial casting be allowed?
  The casting requirement is open and evaluates the teams use of casting to add value and quality.  All teams do finishing value added operations like grinding, heat treatment, polishing, etc.  We consider forging a value added operation like machining or grinding.  If you cast a block and machined out your axe, that would not be making use of the casting operation capability to create geometry and performance.  In the same way if you cast a block and forge your axe from it, it is permitted but would not score well on the utilization of casting to produce the item.

• Will we be allowed to make a handle out of wood for the axe or are we supposed to cast all/or most of it?
  As above, there are no requirements or restrictions on the design of your Horseman’s axe beyond the weight and length cited on the announcement and on this page.  You are able to be creative to maximize your competitiveness in your video, technical report and the axe itself.  A critical component in scoring is the optimal use of casting to create value and performance.

• In terms of handle, is a metallic handle required as in a fully cast metal handle, or can other materials be substituted as well?
  The team is free to have any combination of materials for their item. The casting requirement is to use casting creatively to add value and improve performance. You are free to use any other materials you want to make the best axe.

• What are the alloy restrictions for this competition?
  No restrictions or requirements. It is a steel competition, so SFSA will support your team and find a foundry willing to pour it in steel. Teams often may make a pattern or a mold at another facility and we get them a steel foundry to pour the molds in a selected alloy. Send me a note if you need a steel source.

• Is any additional information available regarding the testing procedures, expectations, or anything else you feel would be helpful for us to know as we prepare?
  Look at the Expert discussion videos on this page. They provide a rich background in the competition. You should also look at videos from earlier competitions and the older reports and prior tests.

• If we are running two teams from a single university, do we need two separate faculty to be our sponsor/advisor?
  No. Multiple teams can use the same advisor, and can also use the same industry partner.

• Is only NDT is allowed to be included on the technical report? We are looking at also performing destructive testing and metallography. We can also add that to the report? 

       Cast in Steel Teams have the freedom to craft their report to best present their team and project.  The             reports should provide a rational for the authenticity of the design and the use of casting.  It is useful to           provide the key design and production choices as well. And as you asked, all testing including NDT and           other testing is valuable.  The reference to NDT was to suggest to teams that NDT would reveal cracks             like the ones that were in the sword fractures last year.  The report contents are the responsibility of the         teams to best present their project for the competition.