Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Vacuum casting is a rapid prototyping process used to create high-quality, small-batch parts by pouring liquid material, typically polyurethane resin, into a silicone mold under a vacuum. Here's a concise overview:

Master Model Creation: A high-precision master model is made, often via 3D printing or CNC machining, to serve as the template for the mold.

Silicone Mold Formation: The master model is placed in a casting box, and liquid silicone is poured around it. The silicone cures to form a flexible mold, capturing fine details of the master.

Vacuum Casting: The silicone mold is placed in a vacuum chamber. Liquid resin (chosen for properties like strength, flexibility, or transparency) is mixed, degassed to remove air bubbles, and poured into the mold under vacuum conditions to ensure precision and eliminate defects.

Curing and Demolding: The resin cures in the mold, typically at controlled temperatures, and the finished part is removed. Silicone molds can produce 10–50 parts before degrading, depending on complexity and material.

Finishing: Parts may undergo post-processing like painting, polishing, or assembly to meet specific requirements.

Advantages:

High detail and surface finish, mimicking injection-molded parts.

Cost-effective for low-volume production (5–50 units).

Wide range of material options simulating plastics, rubbers, or transparent components.

Fast turnaround, typically days.

Limitations:

Limited mold lifespan compared to injection molding.

Not suitable for high-volume production.

Material properties may not fully match final production materials.

This process is ideal for prototyping, functional testing, or small-batch production in industries like automotive, medical, and consumer products.