For Demanding Industrial Applications
Precision Investment Casting Services
Precision Investment Casting Services are ideal for creating complex, high-tolerance metal parts that are difficult or expensive to machine. This process is the go-to solution for industries like automotive, machinery, and electronics, where component reliability and intricate geometries are critical. Discover how our expertise transforms your designs into high-performance components through our proven investment casting process below:
Pattern Making
Wax patterns are created using a metal mold to form the basic shape of the desired part
Tree Assembly
Multiple wax patterns are attached to a central wax sprue to create a “tree” for batch production.
Shell Building
The wax tree is repeatedly dipped in ceramic slurry to build a strong, heat-resistant shell.
Dewaxing & Shell Firing
The ceramic-coated wax assembly is heated to melt out the wax, then fired to harden and strengthen the shell.
Metal Pouring & Cooling
Molten metal is poured into the preheated shell, then left to cool and solidify, forming the final metal part.
Shell Removal
The ceramic shell is broken away to reveal the rough cast component.
Heat Treatment
The components undergo controlled heating and cooling processes to achieve the required properties.
Cutting & Finishing
The parts are cut from the sprue and undergo surface finishing, machining, and quality inspection.
Precision Investment Casting Capabilities
Our advanced manufacturing facilities deliver exceptional dimensional accuracy and surface quality, meeting the most demanding specifications for complex industrial components.
| Parameter | Capability Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Part Size | 500mm (20 inches) | Largest dimension in any direction |
| Minimum Part Size | 10mm (0.4 inches) | Smallest practical dimension |
| Standard Tolerance | ±0.005 inches (±0.127mm) | Standard production tolerance for first 25mm |
| Precision Tolerance | ±0.003 inches (±0.076mm) | Achievable with process optimization |
| Surface Finish | Ra 3.2μm (125μin) | As-cast surface quality |
| Minimum Wall Thickness | 1.5mm (0.06 inches) | For steel and stainless steel alloys |
| Casting Weight Range | 0.01kg - 25kg (0.02lbs - 55lbs) | Per individual casting |
| Annual Production Capacity | 500,000+ pieces | Total annual casting capacity |
Investment Casting Materials & Alloys
We specialize in a comprehensive range of metal alloys for precision investment casting, ensuring the perfect material solution for your specific application requirements and performance needs. If you need any customized materials, please get in touch with us.
| Material Type | Common Grades | Key Properties | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
Stainless Steel
|
304, 316, 303, 416, 17-4PH, 420 | Excellent corrosion resistance, good strength and toughness, hygienic surface, maintains properties at high temperatures | Food processing equipment, marine components, chemical valves, medical instruments, automotive trim |
Carbon Steel
|
1020, 1045, 1018, 4140, 4130 | Good mechanical properties, cost-effective, responds well to heat treatment, versatile for various applications | Structural components, machinery parts, gears, brackets, automotive components |
Aluminum Alloys
|
A356, 356, 319, 535, 6061 | Lightweight, excellent corrosion resistance, good strength-to-weight ratio, high thermal and electrical conductivity | Aerospace components, automotive parts, electronic enclosures, marine hardware, architectural fittings |
Tool Steel
|
P20, H13, D2, A2, S7 | High hardness, excellent wear resistance, good toughness, maintains cutting edge at elevated temperatures | Molds, dies, cutting tools, punches, industrial blades, wear parts |
Copper Alloys
|
C83600, C84400, C86500, C95500 | Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, good corrosion resistance, antimicrobial properties, attractive appearance | Electrical components, plumbing fittings, marine hardware, decorative art pieces, heat exchangers |
Super Alloys
|
Inconel 718, Hastelloy C, Monel 400 | Exceptional high-temperature strength, outstanding corrosion resistance, excellent oxidation resistance, maintains mechanical properties in extreme environments | Turbine blades, exhaust systems, chemical processing equipment, high-temperature fixtures |
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Gallery Of Investment Casting Metal Parts
Specialist Industries
We have manufactured millions of parts for various applications, with particular expertise in the following areas.
FAQ
MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERSQ1: What materials can be used in Investment Casting?
A1: Common materials include aluminum, zinc, magnesium, and copper alloys, chosen for their properties like strength, lightweight, and corrosion resistance.
Q2: What are the main advantages of Investment Casting?
A2: Investment casting offers excellent surface finishes, tight dimensional tolerances, and the ability to produce intricate shapes with complex geometries, making it ideal for high-precision components.
Q3: What is the typical dimensional tolerance achievable?
A3: The process can achieve tolerances as tight as ±0.1 mm, depending on the part’s size, design complexity, and material used.
Q4: What is the maximum size of parts that can be produced using Investment Casting?
A4: Investment casting is generally suitable for parts up to 600mm in size, but larger components can be produced depending on the design and material requirements.
Q5: How complex can the part geometries be?
A5: Investment casting is capable of handling complex geometries such as thin walls, internal passages, undercuts, and intricate details that are difficult to achieve through other casting methods.
Q6: What are the typical surface roughness values achievable?
A6: Surface roughness typically ranges from Ra 3.2 to 1.6 μm, but smoother finishes can be achieved through secondary processing if needed.
Q7: How does Investment Casting compare to Sand Casting?
A7: Investment casting offers better surface quality, tighter tolerances, and more complex shapes compared to sand casting, making it ideal for high-value, precision applications.
Q8: What industries commonly use Investment Casting?
A8: The process is widely used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and industrial sectors where high-precision, strength, and complex geometries are required.
Q9: What is the lead time for Investment Casting parts?
A9: Typical lead times range from 4 to 6 weeks depending on the complexity of the part, production volume, and any post-processing requirements.