The American Foundry Society is pleased to announce the launch of its AFS Digitization Project, an ambitious initiative that will transform the way foundry professionals access and use industry resources. This project aims to enhance the digital availability and functionality of AFS's vast collection of metalcasting materials, offering unparalleled access to knowledge, data, and tools critical to the foundry industry.
The AFS Digitization Project includes several components:
- Virtual Knowledge Transfer Platforms (VKTP): In collaboration with the Defense Logistics Agency, AFS is developing VKTP to streamline the distribution of critical industry knowledge through digital channels. This platform will ensure that important developments are readily shared with foundry professionals.
- AFS Library Enhancements: Using generative AI technology, the Peters-Robison AFS Metalcasting Library’s search capabilities are being upgraded to include natural language processing, enabling users to find information more easily. These enhancements are complemented by our mobile-friendly library app launched in December 2023, which is available on Android and Apple devices. All AFS members have access to the library.
- Electronic Access to Books and Charts: AFS is digitalizing its extensive collection of metalcasting books and wall charts, offering them on a user-friendly electronic platform. This subscription service will make these resources more accessible, interactive, and convenient for users.
- Casting Alloy Database Selector (CADS) Updates: The CADS tool is receiving major updates, including the addition of over 400 new datasets, with a focus on magnesium alloys. This improvement is part of AFS's commitment to providing comprehensive data to support informed casting design decisions.
The AFS Digitization Project is not just about improving access to information — it's about preparing the industry for the future. With plans extending into 2028, AFS is laying the groundwork for a fully integrated digital ecosystem that includes workforce training videos, expert content, and advanced search functionalities. These developments promise to boost efficiency and productivity while also driving innovation and excellence in metalcasting.
Brian Began, AFS VP of Metalcasting Technical Services, will provide an overview of the AFS Digitization Project during Metalcasting Congress 2024. His presentation, “Update on AFS Project for Digitizing Various Knowledge Platforms,” is at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, in the Casting Source Theater at Milwaukee’s Baird Center.
The AFS Digitization Project is co-sponsored by AFS and AMC. This American Metalcasting Consortium (AMC) project is sponsored by the Defense Logistics Agency Information Operations, J68, Research & Development, Ft. Belvoir, VA and the Defense Logistics Agency – Troop Support, Philadelphia, PA.
The American Foundry Society is a dynamic technical and advocacy organization that serves and represents the $50 billion metalcasting industry. AFS is the only association serving the entire industry, including all metals and processes, with a three-part focus on advocacy, education, and innovation. AFS also publishes Modern Casting and Casting Source magazines and presents Metalcasting Congress and CastExpo, the largest metalcasting trade events in North America. Founded in 1896, the organization is based in Schaumburg, Illinois, with an advocacy office in Washington, D.C. More information is available at afsinc.org.