Investment casting, also known as lost-wax casting, is a precision manufacturing process that produces metal components with exceptional detail, smooth surface finishes, and complex geometries. At DS Industries, we specialize in high-quality investment casting solutions for aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial applications. This guide explores the investment casting process, technical capabilities, material options, and industry-specific benefits, providing a detailed overview of how this method can meet your manufacturing needs.
Investment casting involves creating a ceramic mold from a wax pattern, which is then melted away to form a cavity for molten metal. The process includes several critical stages:
Pattern Creation: Wax or 3D-printed patterns are produced in the shape of the desired part.
Assembly: Patterns are attached to a central wax sprue, forming a cluster or "tree."
Shell Building: The assembly is repeatedly dipped into ceramic slurry and stuccoed to build a thick, hard shell.
Dewaxing: The shell is heated to melt out the wax, leaving a hollow ceramic mold.
Pouring: Molten metal is poured into the mold cavity.
Cooling & Removal: After solidification, the ceramic shell is broken away to reveal the metal part.
Finishing: Parts are cut from the sprue, cleaned, and finished to meet specifications.
This method allows for tight tolerances, minimal machining, and the production of intricate designs that are difficult or impossible to achieve with other methods.
We offer end-to-end investment casting services, from design assistance to finished components. Our technical parameters include:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Size Range | 0.1 oz to 35 lbs |
| Tolerance | ±0.005 in/in (±0.127 mm/mm) |
| Surface Finish | 125 RMS (as-cast); 32 RMS (with finishing) |
| Wall Thickness | 0.04 in to 2 in (1 mm to 50 mm) |
| Annual Capacity | Over 1 million parts |
| Lead Time | 4-8 weeks (prototype); 8-12 weeks (production) |
Materials We Work With:
Stainless Steels: 304, 316, 17-4PH, 15-5PH
Carbon & Alloy Steels: 1020, 4140, 4340
Tool Steels: H13, P20
Aluminum Alloys: A356, 356, 535
Superalloys: Inconel, Hastelloy, Cobalt-based
Copper Alloys: Bronze, Brass
Investment casting is ideal for industries requiring high precision, durability, and complex part geometries:
Aerospace: Turbine blades, engine components, structural parts.
Medical: Surgical instruments, implants, dental devices.
Automotive: Turbochargers, transmission parts, sensors.
Industrial: Valve bodies, pump components, machinery parts.
Defense: Firearm components, guidance system parts.
✔ Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art wax injection, 3D printing, and CNC finishing.
✔ Quality Assurance: Every part undergoes rigorous inspection, including X-ray, CMM, and dye penetrant testing.
✔ Custom Solutions: We work closely with clients to optimize designs for manufacturability and cost-efficiency.
✔ Global Supply Chain: With facilities in the US, Europe, and Asia, we serve clients worldwide with consistent quality.
Ready to Elevate Your Manufacturing Process?
As the head of engineering at DS Industries, I personally guarantee that our investment casting services will meet your highest standards for precision, quality, and reliability. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements or request a quote.
Email: Sales@dsindustriesgroup.com
Let’s bring your most complex designs to life with precision and efficiency.
Most of our quotes are delivered within 24/36 hrs. and usually in much less time, depending on project details.
Our team will contact you directly about your CNC machining quote to ensure you’ve received and understand all aspects of your quotation and to answer any questions you may have about your options.