Vacuum casting is one of the most versatile and widely used manufacturing techniques, with the simple reason being it has a wide range of properties which can be used make a part or product, I mean how amazing is that! When it comes to product design and development, for many technician, designers and engineers they mostly use this type of production technique.
The appearance and properties are quite similar to the apparatuses used in manufacturing high-quality products and engineering polymers like nylon, polycarbonate, ABS, elastomers, polypropylene just to name a few.
During the entirety of the casting process, it’s usually very difficult to match exactly the desirable property traits of your favorite material. The good thing about this casting process is the fact that you can use a wide variety of materials which increases the selection pool you can choose from.
The casting materials used will be a replica of the dimensions and specifications of the engineering team especially when it comes to thermal and physical properties. Most of the common materials used by this casting technique include rubbers, resins and thermoplastics.
These three materials have the same characteristics and properties when it comes to rigidity, strength, physical appearance, flexibility, UV, stability, and level of transparency. Vacuum casting is used in a wide variety of areas and spectrum such as aerospace, automotive, medical, pharmaceutical, telecommunications, food production, as well as consumer goofs just to mention a few.
Rubbers/ elastomers
Rubber is considered to be the most flexible and versatile materials in the casting process, these materials are widely known to make gaskets and seals due to their enhanced durability and longevity.
It’s solely for this simple reason that clients and manufacturers prefer rubber when it comes to the sole replication of parts and components using the vacuum casting process.
Among the materials normally used in this casting technique, rubber is the most affordable and widely used. Some of the most used forms of rubber include UPX8400, F141, F126.
vacuum casting silicon rubber products*
Durable Polycarbonates
For those who want parts and components with higher shock resistance, the robust and agile polycarbonates must be on your priority list. It can withstand both extremely high and low temperatures.
With regards to the appearance, it comes with an attractive and appealing translucent look that doesn’t require a lot of finishing services.
Polypropylene
For industries that deal with plastic, Polypropylene is one of the most favorite materials used in vacuum casting. Its cheap and easily available, the parts and components created using polypropylene are durable and long-lasting.
Most of the goods and products made using these types of materials include utensils, toys, housewares, laboratory, medical equipment just to name a few. Polypropylene is regarded by engineers and designers as the second most used material in vacuum casting.
The key characteristics of materials used in casting procedure is durability and quick forming of its characteristics. Vacuum casting is a key manufacturing procedure that has truly changed the manufacturing landscape for the better.
Reference
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