Toggle View: Production Process | Prototype Process
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SLS Pattern creation |
No need for tooling |
Wax Assembly |
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| The first step in the prototype casting process is to build an SLS pattern directly from a CAD file. This can be completed in just hours without tooling. | The pattern is then prepared for production by coating the part in wax. From here we use our normal process to create a production quality part. | Patterns are “wax welded” to a central sprue or cluster to facilitate pouring. Many patterns are attached to sprues for increased efficiency |
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Shell Building |
De-Waxing |
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| The assembled prue is then dipped or “invested” in into a ceramic slurry. After draining, the sprue is then coated or “stuccoed” with a fine ceramic sand. This process is repeated several times using progressively coarser grades of ceramic material to “build” sufficient “shell” strength. | The shell built sprue is then de-waxed by rapidly heating in a furnace or autoclave leaving behind the perfect shell cavity. | |
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Preheating Shell |
Pouring |
Part Finishing |
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| The shells are then fired at 1600° to 2000°. This cures the shells interior into smooth, hard and strong ceramic material. | The hot sprues are then removed from the furnace and poured immediately. The poured shells are then set aside to cool. | When cool the shell material is stripped away from the sprue. Parts are then cut from the sprue |
