John Keough: A Metallurgist and Materials Science Expert
John Keough is an experienced professional in the field of metallurgy and materials science. He started his career in roles such as draftsman, welder, and machine builder, and later held positions at companies like General Motors, TRW Turbine Components Divison (now PCC Airfoil), Atmosphere Group Inc., and Applied Process Inc.(now Aalberts NV). At Applied Process Inc., he served as the CEO and focused on developing cost-effective and energy-efficient product and process solutions, with a particular emphasis on the Austempering process, and Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI).
In 2005, Keough established Joyworks LLC., a consultancy that provided expertise in casting process development, ferrous metallurgy, and material/process conversions. While the physical casting studio is no longer operational, Keough continues to offer design, sourcing, and educational solutions.
Education and Mentorship
Keough holds dual BS degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Materials and Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He has been a Registered Professional Engineer in Ohio since 1980 and serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan. In this departmental support role, he mentors engineering students, covering topics that bridge mechanical and metallurgical issues with business management in the context of materials science.
Recognition in the Field
Keough’s contributions to the field have been acknowledged through various awards. He is a Fellow of ASM International, and has received their Heat Treating Society’s George H. Bodeen Award. Through ASM’s Detroit Chapter Keough was awarded the Engineering Society of Detroit’s Affiliate Society Gold Medal. AFS awards include the Award of Scientific Merit and the Pangborn Gold Medal. The Ductile Iron Society presented him with their Lifetime Achievement Award. The Foundry Educational Foundation awarded Keough with their highest award, the E.J. Walsh Award. These awards recognize his technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to the metalcasting community.
Why I’m In This Industry
Two years in at the University of Michigan College of Engineering, on a Mechanical Engineering track, I was looking for a job to support my growing family. I was fortunate to be directed to professor Richard Flinn. Dick was the Foundry Educational Foundation professor at UoM and offered me a job in the metalcasting lab if I would realign my classes to go for dual degrees in Mechanical and Materials/Metallurgical Engineering. I took the offer and immediately fell in love with metalcasting and the processes related to it. As an FEF delegate to their annual College Industry Conference I met my first post-college employer, General Motors where I went to work making cast iron cylinder blocks and heads for GM vehicles.
In subsequent years I followed a process engineering path to TRW Turbine Components Division and, being privileged to be directly involved in the commercialization of single-crystal, super alloy, turbine blades. Later, at Applied Process I led the team that commercialized the Austempered Ductile Iron process, with ADI worldwide annual production now approaching one million tons.
ADI is a low embodied energy material with a strength to weight ratio exceeding that of aluminum. But ADI technology is limited by the casting process. Conventional iron casting processes balk at sections under 5mm. So, after Applied Process, we set out to develop a commercial path to high-integrity, repeatable, 3mm wall ductile iron. LightSpeed Concepts (LightSpeedConcepts.net) was born to deliver such castings from 3D sand-additive molds and cores. I am the founder and Chairman of LightSpeed Concepts and Joyworks plays a pivotal, technical support role in the development of their BlueNano(R) binder and their IR V-Builder sand printer.
Everything metal starts as a casting.
Metalcasting is the lowest energy path from metallic ores to finished products.
The metalcasting industry is largest recycling industry on the globe.
Metalcasting represents real sustainability.
I have done well while doing good in the metalcasting industry.
My “why” is to share that experience and passion to “grow the pie”.
How can I help you?
John R. (Chip) Keough, PE, FASM
Proprietor
Consulting Approach
As a consultant, Keough offers personalized advice to improve processes, reduce energy consumption, and connect clients with implementers and production facilities. His approach is hands-on, practical, and customized to the specific needs of each client, whether they are product engineers, buyers, or members of the material science community. His goal is to provide cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions that meet or exceed expectations.
Personal Interests and Community Involvement
Keough is passionate about mentoring youth in engineering and manufacturing and serves as a Trustee for the Keough Family Foundation. In his free time, he enjoys metal casting and fabrication, motorcycling, skiing, and other activities that keep him grounded and inspire his work.
Contributing to the Future of the Metal Industry
With expertise and dedication to innovation, John Keough is well-equipped to help support your project. Through consultation, facilitation, and discussions about the role of metal in technology, Keough aims to guide clients towards successful and sustainable solutions. Collaborating with Keough offers an opportunity to be part of a more efficient and innovative future for the world of metals.
