Metal Prototype Options

Our fastest way to prototype cast metal parts, this proprietary method is similar to lost foam or lost wax. This casting method is excellent in picking up fine detail and is perfect for low-volume design verification. It starts with a RP pattern. Then a ceramic tool is cast around it and we pour molten material into the cavity. Materials available include aluminum, steel, iron, zinc and others. (Materials available.) Size ranges from 1 inch to 3 feet. Lead time: 5-10 days.

This casting method is excellent for picking up great detail and allows for thin walls (.040) with a surface finish similar to die casting. We start with a RP pattern and then cast a plaster tool. Size can range from a few inches to a few feet. Materials include Aluminum 356-T6 and Zinc. Good for 5 to 250 parts. Lead time: 2-4 weeks.

We start with a pattern and then a layer of plastic. This is backed with sand and an additional layer of plastic. Then this sandwich of sorts is pulled under a vacuum to produce the tool. Next the metal is introduced and after it cools, the vacuum is released - giving us aluminum cast parts. The parts can be as large as 36" X 44" X 15". Lead time: 3-4 weeks.

When it comes to metal castings, there are multiple options available. When considering which method is best for you, there are a number of factors that need to be examined, such as type of material, volume of parts, lead time and price. For example, if you only need 1-5 parts in aluminum, then our Insty-Metal is the fastest and most cost-effective method. If the volumes are 5-25, then our True-Cast would be the method of choice. And if the volumes are 25-100+ then Vacuum Castings would be more cost-effective.