Following the cooling of the mold after welding, which maintenance step should be performed?

• A. Inspect for surface cracks on the mold.
• B. Clean the inside of the mold with a soft bristle brush or soft cotton cloth.
• C. Reassemble the mold and begin the next cycle.
• D. Coat the mold exterior with protective varnish.

Answer: (B)

Cleaning the mold interior after cooling is essential because it removes slag, dust, and residues left from welding, ensuring the next cycle starts with a clean surface. Using a soft bristle brush or a soft cotton cloth protects the interior from scratches while effectively removing contaminants that could cause defects or sticking in subsequent casts. This step prepares the mold for the next operation and helps maintain the quality of the finished product. Inspecting for cracks is important, but doing so after cleaning ensures you’re assessing a true, debris-free surface. Reassembling and starting the next cycle without cleaning could introduce contaminants, and coating the exterior with varnish isn’t necessary and could interfere with heat transfer or moisture control.