Rapid Tooling Techniques

QuickCast

QuickCast, a 3D Systems proprietary process, replaces traditional wax patterns for investment casting with stereolithography (SLA) patterns created in a robust, durable material, without tooling and without delay. The net result is QuickCast patterns in as little as 2 to 4 days and quality metal castings in 1 to 4 weeks.

The QuickCast part resembles a beehive hatch pattern and ends up being about 80% hollow. It will burn out in the investment casting process with very little residue.

PROCESS DESCRIPTION

• A Stereolithography QuickCast pattern is created from an STL file.
• The pattern is leak tested to make sure it is air tight.
• An investment caster is chosen (based on experience & material required).
• QuickCast pattern is given to the caster.
• Caster puts part through ceramic coating process and performs firing procedure to burn out SLA pattern.
• Metal is poured into the fired ceramic shell.
• Ceramic shell is broken off to reveal metal part.