3D Printer Makes Castable Wax Patterns for Creation of Master Molds

The S500 high precision 3D printer from Solidscape Inc. is designed to produce highly accurate, directly castable wax patterns. The printer, along with new castable material, Midas, and dissolvable support material, Melt-I, shortens production time and can eliminate the need for expensive tooling. The S500 is ideal for industrial casting manufacturers who produce high precision complex parts where dimensional accuracy and superior external and internal surface finishes are critical. By significantly streamlining both front- and back-end processes, the S500 is designed to make the printing of directly castable parts and the creation of custom molds from wax patterns repeatable and scalable.

According to the company, the printer enables shops to create accurate, complex, precise wax patterns that can be directly cast in most metals and alloys. Or, the printer enables shops to create silicone or master molds and therefore remove the need for expensive custom tooling. The S500’s new Solidjet Technology builds a support structure of solid wax, allowing for organic shapes with undercuts, overhangs, thin walls and interlocking parts, and producing high-integrity castings with superior interior and exterior surface finish.

Along with the printer, new materials seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing and casting processes, avoiding the need for special burn-out schedules and equipment. Midas provides a clean burnout with no thermal expansion and is ideal for metal casting, including stainless steel, nickel and various alloys. Melt-I, the non-toxic, hand-free dissolvable support, reduces stress points on shapes with thin walls and delicate details.