Also known as lost wax casting, investment casting is a very precise method of making a metal part. It involves creating a mold out of a material that can melt easily, like wax. A fusible material, such as wax, is molded to form a cylindrical structure that is coated with multiple layers of a refractory material. The wax, coating, and refractory material are then heated to fuse them and form a solid ceramic structure to create a mold. This solid structure is then treated to create a mold from which parting lines are removed. Final castings are produced with molten metal.
Benefits of Investment Casting
1.Exceptional dimensional and geometric accuracy Fits the criteria of castings with high tolerance specifications.
2.Great surface quality Produces smooth surfaces which may lessen secondary machining or even eliminate the need for it.
3.Ability to cast complex geometries and different metals and alloys Ideal for intricate, thin walled components with few material restrictions.
Disadvantages:
1.Steps are more complicated, like a process with a lot of stages
2.Relatively high cost of production
Applications：
Industries like aerospace, energy, automotive, medical devices, and precision machinery use investment casting extensively. It works particularly well in the production of small parts that have complex geometries. It is also suitable for small parts that demand high accuracy or are hard to create using machining, like precision mechanical components and turbine blades.