The core process of 3D printing precision casting can be divided into two mainstream technical paths: sand mold direct printing casting and investment casting digital replacement.
The process difference between the two is mainly reflected in the mold preparation link, but both significantly improve the efficiency and precision of traditional casting.
Process type and process analysis
Sand mold direct 3D printing casting (suitable for rapid prototyping)
Core process:
3D model design
Use CAD software to build a casting model, and add casting process parameters (shrinkage allowance, pouring system, riser design) and perform simulation analysis.
Sand mold printing
Choose SLS or Binder Jetting technology to form a complex sand mold (no mold required) by spraying binder layer by layer with casting sand.
Post-processing and casting
Clean up loose particles in sand mold → strength/size inspection → assembly → smelting metal → pouring → cooling → sand cleaning → casting post-processing.
Key advantages:
High design freedom (complex inner cavity or curved surface structure that cannot be completed by traditional processes can be realized);
Production cycle is shortened by more than 70% (eliminating the mold making link).
Digital replacement of investment casting (applicable to precision titanium alloy parts)
Core process (comprehensive):
3D printing of resin mold
Use light curing (SLA) or similar technology to make high-precision resin models to replace traditional wax molds.
Tree assembly and shell making
Assemble the resin mold and the pouring system → dip the ceramic slurry multiple times to form the shell → dry naturally.
Demolding and casting
High-temperature roasting (800-1100℃) to remove the resin mold → preheat the shell → pour the molten metal → cool → break the shell and take out the parts.
Key advantages:
Applicable to active metals (such as titanium alloys) (ceramic shells can isolate metal oxidation);
Small batch costs are reduced by 50% (no need to open the mold, directly print the resin model).
Process selection logic
Sand mold direct printing is more suitable for rapid trial production of small and medium-sized castings (such as engine blocks, complex brackets);
Investment mold replacement process is more suitable for high-precision, corrosion-resistant parts (such as aviation blades, medical implants).
Of course, if you have a large-scale demand for 3D printing metal casting, you can choose to cooperate with Mulan Metal. Mulan has 12 years of experience in metal casting and has professional, high-precision casting technology. It can meet the needs of different countries and industries for casting products. At present, Mulan Metal serves customers in more than 30 countries.
Here is our Custom metal Castings Display：
