For small series with big impact
Vacuum Casting is a copying technique used for the production of small series of functional plastic parts. Using two-component polyurethanes and silicone molds, Vacuum Casting is known for its fast production of high-quality prototypes or end-use products.
Why choose Vacuum Casting?
Silicone molding results in high-quality parts comparable to injection-molded components. This makes vacuum casted models especially suitable for fit and function testing, marketing purposes or a series of final parts in limited quantities. Vacuum Casting also lends itself well to a variety of finishing degrees, and we can match the finish you need for your parts.
Ideal applications for Vacuum Casting
- Pre-launch product testing
- Small series of housings and covers
- Concept models and prototypes
Technical Specifications
| Standard lead time |
Up to 10 copies within 15 working days |
| Standard accuracy |
±0.3% (with a lower limit on ± 0.3 mm on dimensions smaller than 100 mm) |
| Minimum wall thickness |
To ensure that the mold is filled properly, a wall thickness of at least 0.75 mm is necessary. For best results, we recommend a wall thickness of at least 1.5 mm |
| Maximum part dimensions |
The size of the mold is limited by the dimensions of the vacuum chamber (1900 x 900 x 750 mm) and by the volume of the product (maximum volume: 10 liters) |
| Typical quantities | Up to 25 copies per mold (depending on the mold’s complexity and the casting materials) |
| Surface structure |
High-quality surface finish comparable to injection molding |
Materials
We offer an exceptional range of 26 carefully selected polyurethanes that are similar to rubber, PP, ABS, and PC. These materials provide an outstanding variety of properties and offer the possibility to match colors and cast transparent components. If you are looking for a specific finish, our skilled post-production team for Vacuum Casting will match your requirements.
Contact us for more detailed information to find the material most suitable for your project.
Your 3D Printing Toolkit
How Does Vacuum Casting Work?
Vacuum Casting begins by producing a master model, typically using Stereolithography or Laser Sintering, with a high-quality surface finish. Then a silicone mold is produced by casting silicone around the master copy, partially under vacuum to avoid air bubbles. After curing, the silicone mold is cut according to pre-defined parting planes and the master is removed, leaving a cavity to make copies.
We'd love to hear about your projects and see how we can help.