3D-printed ceramics in investment casting: Rewriting the rules for efficient casting core production
Investment casting is an integral part of manufacturing metal components in the aerospace industry.
In this process, a wax pattern is “invested” (coated) with a refractory ceramic material. After the ceramic coating dries and hardens, the wax is melted out and leaves behind a cavity that is subsequently filled with molten metal. Once the metal cools and solidifies, the ceramic cast is removed from the metal, leaving behind a complex and highly accurate component.