Moulding and Casting
Updated for 2023 evaluation standards!
Group assignment:
- Review the safety data sheets for each of your molding and casting materials
- Make and compare test casts with each of them
Individual assignment:
- Design a mold around the stock and tooling that you'll be using, mill it (rough cut + (at least) three-axis finish cut), and use it to cast parts.
Learning outcomes
- Design appropriate objects within the limitations of at least 3-axis machining
- Demonstrate workflows used in mold design, construction and casting
Have you answered these questions?
- Linked to the group assignment page and reflected on your individual page what you have learned
- Reviewed the safety data sheets for each of your molding and casting materials, then made and compared test casts with each of them
- Documented how you designed your 3D mold and created your rough and finish toolpaths for machining, including machine settings
- Shown how you made your mold and cast the parts
- Described problems and how you fixed them
- Included your design files and ‘hero shot’ of the mold and the final object
FAQ
Should I mill a mold for the group assignment?
Answer: No, group assignment is for you to get familiar with the materials and the processes.
Should I read the material safety data sheet (MSDS) and technical data sheet (TDS) this week?
Answer: Yes, always. Document the main points you have learned, e.g. safety precautions and any other important information.
I want to only make a mold and cast something in it. Is that acceptable?
Answer: Yes, if the parts you need to cast are soft.
What does 3-axis milling mean?
Answer: You should have smooth tilted or curved surfaces instead of "steps" towards axis Z.
Can I 3D print the mold? Can I do a lasercut?
Answer: No, for this assignment you must mill the mold using a CNC milling machine. After fulfilling the requirements, you can experiment with other techniques for fabricating molds.
Have a question or feedback? Use this quick link to open an issue in GitLab class repo!