Thompson Investment Casting Process
Step 1
Tool Design and Manufacture
A wax injection mold is designed and built to produce castings per customer specifications.
Step 2
Wax Production
A wax pattern of recyclable material is produced from the wax injection mold.
Step 3
High Volume Production
Multi-cavity tools are used to expedite the volume of wax production.
Step 4
Pattern Assembly
Thompson Investment Casting’s unique method of gating and treeing systems assures sound castings at a minimum cost.
Step 5
Shell Molding
The pattern assembly is systematically dipped into a ceramic slurry, coated with a refractory material and dried. The process is repeated until the desired thickness and strength is achieved.
Step 6
Ceramic Shell Drying
Between coatings, the ceramic shells are dried in an atmospherically-controlled environment.
Step 7
Autoclave
Using regulated steam pressure, an autoclave melts and reclaims the wax from the ceramic shells.
Step 8
Shell Curing
High temperature ovens cure and preheat the ceramic shells prior to pouring the molten metal.
Step 9
Casting
Pre-heated molds are poured utilizing a unique process which facilitates the production of thin walls and intricate detail while enhancing the surface.
Step 10
Knock Out & Cut Off
The ceramic shell is removed, the cluster is cleaned, & the castings are cut free from the gating system.
Step 11
Machining & Finishing
After cut off and gate removal, all secondary finishing operations are performed.
Step 12
Inspection & Testing
Castings are inspected & precisely tested according to customer specifications and requirements.