DIRECT PATTERINS GAIN POPULARITY - Research Compares QuickCast & Thermojet Patterns for Investment Casting

摘要

Although direct patterns- investment casting patterns built using an rapid prototyping process- have been in regular use in the investment casting industry for more than 10 years, their use has recently grown tremendously. Last year, more than 10,000 castings were created from direct patterns and the number continues to grow. While most direct patterns are used to create prototype castings, they are increasingly also being used for low-volume production castings. The ability to create production quality investment castings quickly, with no investment in tooling, has opened new markets for investment casters. Investment casting now competes effectively with machining and weldments in various low-volume projects.