Whether we design your investment castings or simply advise you, the below are the design considerations we advise you consider before our manufacturing process begins.
• Flatness and Straightness. Thick to thin sections should be avoided and the use of ribs can help contribute to a straighter and flatter part. Geometries adjacent to large flat planes should be angled to promote solidification and to help prevent cavitation from occurring and creating “sump” on the large flat surface. Try and use uniform thicknesses on flat surfaces where possible.
• Blind holes. The depth of a blind hole should not exceed its width. Through holes are easier to cast than blind holes but depending on internal geometry or diameter may also require the use of ceramic cores. In some cases, especially with threaded holes, a secondary machining operation may prove most economical.
• Draft angle.
• Undercuts. Can increase the complexity of the wax tooling and in extreme cases require the use of ceramic cores which can increase the cost.
For guidance on the minimum required thickness of the walls, see the table below:
For more information Investment Casting, please get in touch with us!