How does vacuum casting work

Discover how vacuum casting works: how to quickly replicate high-quality, functional polyurethane (PU) prototypes using silicone molds in a vacuum environment. Ideal for small-batch production, it’s a crucial bridge between 3D printing and mass production. Learn more now.

Shanghai Yunyan Prototype & Mould Manufacture Factory has over 20 years of experience in the vacuum casting process. So we have very rich experiences in the vacuum casting job process and you can visit our website link for more details.

The core of the silicone replication process is to make silicone molds from the original mold and then replicate the products in batches using the molds. The main steps are as follows:

Vacuum casting production process

1. Prepare the original Prototype: Confirm that the surface of the original Prototype (such as the prototype or sample) is smooth and free of defects. If necessary, polish and clean it to ensure that there is no oil or dust.

2. Making silicone molds: Mix the silicone raw material and curing agent in proportion, stir evenly, and vacuum remove bubbles to avoid the formation of bubbles in the mold.

Slowly pour the mixed silicone into the mold frame containing the original mold, completely covering it. After vacuuming again, let it stand and wait for the silicone to solidify (usually several hours to a day, depending on the type of silicone).

After the silicone is cured, cut the mold along the preset parting line, remove the original mold, and obtain a silicone mold with a product cavity. If necessary, adjust the mold cavity.

3. Pouring replication materials: Select replication materials such as resin, PU, ABS, etc. according to the needs, mix the raw materials (such as resin and curing agent) in proportion, stir evenly, and inject them into the cavity of the silicone mold.

4. Product curing and demolding: Place the mold filled with material and wait for the replicated material to cure (the time depends on the material). After curing is complete, open the silicone mold and remove the molded replicated product.

Vacuum casting parts

5. Post processing: After demolding, the product is subjected to subsequent processing such as trimming, polishing, coloring, and assembly to meet the final usage requirements.

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