Vacuum Casting
Quality Vacuum Casting Service
Vacuum casting is one of the most cost-effective option that is applied to test your low-volume design.
Tolerance of silicone mold reaches around±0.1MM while that on finished parts reaches +-0.15MM.
If the size of vacuum casting parts is more than 1M, the tolerance on the parts is +-0.2MM.
Popular Vacuum Casting Materials and Finishing
1. Create the Master Model
- The master model serves as the reference for creating the mold.
- It is typically made using 3D printing (like SLA or SLS) or CNC machining.
- The model is often crafted from durable materials like resin, plastic, or metal, ensuring it can withstand the mold-making process.
2. Prepare the Master Model
- Polish or coat the model to achieve the desired finish on the final parts.
- Secure the model in a casting box with proper alignment for mold creation.
3. Create the Silicone Mold
- Use liquid silicone material for the mold.
- Pour silicone around the master model in a casting box, ensuring all details are covered.
- Allow the silicone to cure, typically in a vacuum chamber to remove air bubbles and ensure detail accuracy.
- Once cured, carefully cut the mold to remove the master model, creating a cavity for casting.
4. Prepare for Casting
- Close the mold and secure it to prevent leakage.
- Ensure proper air vents to allow trapped air to escape during casting.
- Choose a casting material (e.g., polyurethane resin) based on the desired properties.
5. Casting
- Mix the resin components and degas them in a vacuum chamber to remove air bubbles.
- Fill the mold cavity with resin.
- Use a vacuum chamber to remove air from the mold, ensuring bubble-free casting.
- Allow the resin to cure in the mold, following the material’s specifications (may involve room temperature or heat curing).
6. Demold the Part
- Open the mold carefully to extract the cast part without damaging the mold or the part.
- Check for defects or imperfections and trim any excess material.
7. Post-Processing
- Sand, paint, or coat the part as needed for the desired aesthetic and functional qualities.
- Quality Control:
8. Repeat for Multiple Parts
The silicone mold can typically be reused for up to 20-30 castings, depending on the complexity and material used.