At TPM we provide casting expertise to customers that are looking to stabilize and reduce manufacturing costs. We help them to recognize and utilize the best match of process to product function and provide options on maximizing value.
The water glass casting process is typically used when accommodating larger casting, when an Investment Casting surface finish is not required. Good dimensional precision allows complex parts to be molded.The water glass process is similar to Investment Casting, the wax is a lower temperature wax with a slightly grainier finish and the shell is more course (allowing more strength for bigger parts).Customer benefits include good tolerances, higher weights and complex geometrics. Surface finishes, overall tolerances, and costs will be between that of Sand and Investment Castings.
Lost Foam Casting starts with styrofoam like pellets being injected into a die cavity. Steam is then forced into the die setting the foam to the shape of the cavity. Often to get a complex part shape multiple foam pieces are created and assembled with epoxy. The foam pattern is attached to a runner and coated with a thin layer of slurry and sand. It is then placed into a flask where sand is vibrated and packed around it. A slight vacuum is applied and metal is poured vaporizing the foam. The casting will solidify and be removed.Advantages in this process allows for very complex castings, accurate casting dimensions, and a good surface finish. The lost foam process is economical for complex parts with longer production runs.
Our approach is not industry specific as we believe every problem can be solved with the correct process.