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Home Xometry Community Manufacturing 3D printed molds for lost wax casting

3D printed molds for lost wax casting

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Hi! As part of my latest jewelry project, I’m evaluating the feasibility of utilizing 3D printed molds for lost wax casting. I’m aiming to produce intricate designs with fine details, typically in sterling silver or gold alloys. I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with this method, specifically regarding the best 3D printing technologies for achieving fine detail and surface quality. What design considerations should I keep in mind to avoid defects, and are there any effective post-processing techniques you’d recommend?

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Solved by Nikolaus Mroncz

Hey David, the 3D printed molds have their limitations. In my opinion one of the biggest is the heat transfer. There you work in plastics, it is quite bad and this leads to a long process cycle or sometimes errors in the outcome. It is really for prototyping. Best would be heat resistant material in SLA. My recommendation is to compare the prices on xometry.eu 

Maybe CNC could be a better option. You can choose different technologies and materials and see the price difference immediately. In Alu you have constant good outcome.

BR

    • D

      Hi! As part of my latest jewelry project, I’m evaluating the feasibility of utilizing 3D printed molds for lost wax casting. I’m aiming to produce intricate designs with fine details, typically in sterling silver or gold alloys. I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with this method, specifically regarding the best 3D printing technologies for achieving fine detail and surface quality. What design considerations should I keep in mind to avoid defects, and are there any effective post-processing techniques you’d recommend?

      0
      Reply
    • Xometry Engineer

      Hey David, the 3D printed molds have their limitations. In my opinion one of the biggest is the heat transfer. There you work in plastics, it is quite bad and this leads to a long process cycle or sometimes errors in the outcome. It is really for prototyping. Best would be heat resistant material in SLA. My recommendation is to compare the prices on xometry.eu 

      Maybe CNC could be a better option. You can choose different technologies and materials and see the price difference immediately. In Alu you have constant good outcome.

      BR

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3D printed molds for lost wax casting
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