Versatility is key to efficient and innovative product development. If you need to rapidly prototype or produce small batches of intricate custom parts, urethane casting is a proven technique that delivers precision and speed. It bridges the gap between rapid prototyping and full-scale manufacturing, turning a rough sketch into a tangible cast urethane parts product in a fraction of the time.
But to truly harness the power of urethane casting, you need a partner who knows the ins and outs of the process — a seasoned manufacturer that can ensure that your cast urethane parts meet the highest quality standards and are ready to perform.
Understanding urethane casting
Also known as vacuum casting, urethane casting is a manufacturing process that uses a two-part urethane resin to create high-quality cast urethane parts from a master model. This technique is perfect for low-volume production runs of typically less than 30 parts per manufacturer.
Compared to injection molding, urethane casting offers a more cost-effective solution for producing a limited number of parts. It eliminates the need for expensive mold tooling and allows for rapid part creation without sacrificing quality.
How does it work?
Vacuum casting consists of three main stages:
1. Creating the master model using 3D printing (SLA or SLS) or CNC machining.
2. Making the silicone mold by encasing the master model in liquid silicone rubber and letting it cure, then removing the master to leave a hollow mold.
3. Pouring liquid urethane resin into the mold and letting it cure
Once cured, the finished cast urethane part is removed from the mold.
Why choose vacuum casting?
Cast urethane parts are more economical than injection-molded components, especially for small production runs. You’ll save money due to the lower setup and tooling costs. Plus, urethane casting produces parts with characteristics similar to those of injection-molded ones.
Another advantage of urethane casting is it lets you test and refine your design before committing to more intricate and expensive manufacturing methods. Thus, it saves you resources and time. By engaging a reputable manufacturer, you can access various resins to make parts with unique properties, from opaque to opaque or flexible to rigid. So, it can support various applications while ensuring fast turnaround.
Choose the right vacuum casting specialist.
Let HLH Prototypes make your cast urethane parts. Email FreeQuote@HLHPrototypes.com for a quote, or call +86 755 8256 9129. Alternatively, you may request a free project review if you’re unsure about using vacuum casting for your project.
HLH Prototypes Co. Ltd is a company specializing in delivering tailor-made, fast prototyping and efficient low-volume production solutions. Situated in China, our prototyping firm ensures the speed and quality necessary for your project's success. We extend our rapid part manufacturing services throughout China via our core offerings, which encompass sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, swift tooling, rapid injection molding, urethane vacuum casting, FDM 3D printing, SLS 3D printing, and SLA rapid prototyping. We cater to a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 corporations, small enterprises, and everyone in between, guaranteeing top-notch services. For additional details, please explore our website.
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