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CASTEM (SIAM) CO., LTD. / CASTEM (THAILAND) CO., LTD.
Lost Wax Precision Casting - MIM (Metal Injection Molding)

Digital Casting

Digital Casting

 

What is Digital Casting?


Digital casting method uses resin 3D printed models instead of wax models in the lost wax process.
Since wax model is not utilized in this method, there's no need for a mold. As a result, small quantities can be produced from just one piece.

Features of our Digital Casting

Quantity Small lots (one to five pieces)
Shape Approx. Max Size 400 cubic mm, Complex shapes that are difficult to create with molds can be produced
Material Various types of steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
Casting surface Dependent on the accuracy of the 3D printed model, stacking is visible.
Accuracy Low precision because it depends on the precision of the 3D printed model. If accuracy is required, additional machining may be necessary to achieve the required dimensions.

Digital Casting Manufacturing Process

1. 3D printing

Create resin model by 3D printer

2. Ceramic coating

Coat about 4 to 6 layers of ceramic liquid and powder on the wax tree.

3. Mold firing

Burn out the 3D printed model by heat completely, and sinter ceramic mold.

4. Casting

Pour molten metal into the mold.

Materials

Classification

Material

Stainless Steel

SUS303(Lostwax), SCS13, SCS14,
SCS2A, SUS440C, SCS24

Carbon Steel

S25C(Lostwax), S45C(Lostwax)

NiCrMo Steel

SNCM439(Lostwax)

CrMo Steel

SCM415(Lostwax), SCM435(Lostwax), SCM440(Lostwax)

Tool Steel

SK85(Lostwax), SKH57(Lostwax),
SKS3(Lostwax), SKD11(Lostwax),
​SKD61 (Lostwax)

Heat Resisting Steel

SCH22

Aluminum

AC4C, AC7A

 

Digital Casting Product Examples

PT14K LOX injector inlet


Material:

SCS13

Size:

φ70

Industry:

Aerospace

CH4GG manifold


Material:

Inconel 625

Size:

164

Industry:

Aerospace

PT14K gimbal mount prototype


Material:

AC4C

Size:

φ94

Industry:

Aerospace

PT60k LOX injector inlet


Material:

SCS13

Size:

102

Industry:

Aerospace

 

Notes on Digital Casting / Silicone Rubber Casting

1. Dimensions

The dimensional precision required for industrial products may not be achieved since it depends on the accuracy of the 3D printed model. As a countermeasure, additional machining may be necessary to achieve the required dimensions.

2. Casting Surface

Surface roughness also depends on the accuracy of the 3D printed model, so it is not equivalent to lost wax products.

3. Materials

Not all 3D printed models are suitable for use in digital casting. Some materials may not work well due to issues like residue or expansion during combustion.

 

Latest Update 06 May 2024