When accuracy, precision and perfection in the casts is a top priority, the best option is to use a vacuum chamber. This process is commonly used in industrial casting to make quick and inexpensive casts.
Vacuum casting is considered the ideal method for making prototype models, automotive parts and other high-precision molds and casts. The mold making and casting techniques are de rigueur, but involve the use of a vacuum pump with vacuum chamber so as to make high quality, bubble free and precision molds and casts.
The vacuum helps on two fronts. It keeps air from getting entrapped in the mold, thus leading to smooth and unblemished casts. It also creates perfect casts when the mold has intricate details or undercuts. The vacuum further works to draw the liquid casting material into the tiniest of crevices and indentations. In fact, as no pockets of air are obstructing the material anymore, it flows freely and thus ensures that the model is reproduced in perfect detail.
How it works?
A high quality cast begins with a high quality model and mold. The model should have the appropriate dimensions and appearance, especially when it comes to industrial casting. The mold should be carefully made to ensure that it captures all the fine surface details of the model in their entirety.
The casting material is poured into the mold and then placed into the vacuum chamber. The chamber is sealed and the pump is switched on to begin the vacuuming process. This will pull out all the air from inside while forcing the material into the finest of undercuts. Yet, the vacuum process will not damage the mold or cast in any manner.
It is crucial to leave the mold inside the vacuum chamber itself till it has cured before releasing the vacuum and opening the chamber. This will ensure that air does not get a chance to enter the casting before it has cured fully.
Vacuum casting is in fact a quick and cost-effective method for making multiple duplicates of the model and for rapid prototyping. In fact, the mold itself can also be made in the vacuum chamber.
Where to buy?
EnvironMolds offers a wide selection of mold making and casting materials, supplies and tools. It also stocks different types of equipment like pressure pot, vacuum chamber and pump and more. The chamber features a 4 gallon capacity and comes with all fittings, exhaust valve, vacuum gauge, rubber gaskets, and top and bottom ½-inch clear Lexan plates. The pump can draw upto 75 microns of air which is more than sufficient to pull 29inches of mercury (Hg) at sea level, as needed to deair the materials.
This is a renowned art supplier that provides access to top quality materials from different leading brands apart from its in-house ArtMolds brand. The prices are competitive too. In addition to this, there are a lot of informative materials on making molds and casts. Personal assistance and guidance is also forthcoming.