The rising demand for manufacturing and engineering designs across the different sectors has led to the rise and need for rapid prototyping technology plus other techniques that are compatible with it. One of the production techniques that has benefitted hugely is vacuum casting.
Vacuum casting is a rather popular production process that’s not only used in prototyping but also in manufacturing as well. Before we delve deeper into the qualities of vacuum casting, let’s first look at exactly how the process works.
The whole process is a combination of two unique technologies: molding and vacuum casting. This process utilizes a silicone resin mainly used during mold preparation thus making the combination of the two processes possible.
Addingpolyurethane into the mix can mimic all the qualities of the materials that will be used during mass production, thus making the whole process a success. This made vacuum casting not only a preferred option for pre-production but also used for small volume production for visual, fabrication, performance, mechanical, and even market testing.
Key qualities of vacuum casting
Versatility
What makes vacuum casting stand out is because it’s versatile making it perfect for prototyping, the casting process is used in a wide variety of casting applications. This particular manufacturing technique is used in creating small volume production for intuitive and functional parts for experimentation and testing where a simulated material is used in mimicking particular properties and sometimes the composition of the intended product. This particular quality makes it affordable for mass-production.
Vacuum casting is also an alternative production technique used to make covers and housings in the same manner in which master models are created. The mold model is created using the casting silicone around the master model and exposing it to a vacuum which drives out all the air bubbles.
When the silicone has cooled, it’s in turn cured and the model removed; the resultant mold will be ready for use when it comes to the creation of thousands of copies from the master.
Economical
Vacuum casting is a cheaper technique when it comes to testing or modeling the design of past which lack assembled components. The casting process will still adhere to the specifications and dimensions of the intended part or product but at a lower cost.
If you are in the market for a prototype to present the concept of your design as well as explaining how the product works to the potential users, buyers, and stakeholders, vacuum casting presents you with the perfect solution.
When it comes to the production of prototypes, you’re most likely going to tweak the design and do modifications, this is a much more economical method rather than trying to make the exact product.
Durability
Vacuum casting is amongst the few manufacturing processes that eliminate the formation of bubbles, this will make the resultant product more durable. The absence of bubbles doesn’t affect the integrity or stability of your part or product, this is one of the key reasons why vacuum casting is mostly used in rapid prototyping techniques.
For those looking for low-volume production or the production of prototypes, look o further as vacuum casting presents you with an excellent choice.