Rapid prototype - Vacuum casting

◪Original patterns can be made from any stable, solid material that’s able to withstand temperatures up to 100 C. Simple shapes can be CNC machined

◪After finished the patterns , we then built molds for vacuum casting. Preparing these molds required us to be careful to many important details including the following.

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We need carefully analyze difference kind of parts. We need to find out the exact place to locate the dividing line for each part. The dividing line is where the mold will be opened into two or more sections. This line is important as: We need to make sure we can easily remove the part later without damaging the surface or losing fidelity on any important features. After the line was located, we placed a thin film or skirt around the perimeter of the part. This film is needed for allowing the mold to separate after it’s solidified. All patterns need to be mounted on a dowel rod. These rods are used to suspend the patterns inside the molding box, preventing the patterns from touching any of the sides or the bottom when the silicone is poured in.

● Pouring the Molds
Liquid mold material will be poured into the work boxes.

● Curing the Molds
After poured, the boxes were placed in an special oven and keep there to cure for a certain time.

● Removing the Master Patterns
When the molds were fully cured, the molds were opened and the patterns removed.

◪When the molds were shut on, we poured liquid resin into the cavity and then placed the molds in a vacuum chamber for a few hours  and wait for the resin to be cured.