Moulding and Casting
Updated for 2021 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 3D mould 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 3 axis machining
- Demonstrate workflows used in mould design, construction and casting
Have you answered these questions?
- Linked to the group assignment page
- 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 mould and created your rough and finish toolpaths for machining, including machine settings
- Shown how you made your mould and cast the parts
- Described problems and how you fixed them
- Included your design files and ‘hero shot’ of the mould and the final object
FAQ
Should I mill a mould for the group assignment?
Answer: No, group assignment is for you to get familiar with the materials and the processes.
Should I read the MSDS and TDS this week?
Answer: Yes, always. Document the main points.
I want to only make a wax mould, and cast something in it. Is that acceptable?
Answer: Only after you learn and go through the 3 step process. To break the rules, you have to master the rules.
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 mould using a CNC milling machine. After fulfilling the requirements, please go ahead and experiment other techniques for fabricating moulds.
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