Capability
Casting Considerations and Capabilities
The investment casting process can produce precisely replicated parts in a truly economical fashion. Single crystal of grain structure can be also achieved.
Effective part configuration is the critical element in achieving strict tolerances for investment casting.
The standard tolerance is ±.005 per inch for axial straightness, roundness (bar or tube shapes) and positioning of holes or bosses.
The concentricity is dependent on measurements taken from the same plane, and does not include out-of-roundness tolerance. If this is the case.
The as-cast angle tolerance is a function of the part design. A minimum tolerance of ±1/2 degree is considered standard.
Blind holes and slots can be cast, assuming that the depth is equal to the width or diameter for small characteristics less than 3/8".
When depth sizes increase above 3/8", the size of the opening will be incrementally doubled.
Flatness is measured as the distance between two parallel planes, within which the entire surface of the part must lie.
The shape of the part will influence the cooling behavior of the wax pattern and the part as it solidifies.
The standard minimum wall thickness for investment casting lies between .040" and .080".
Wall thickness as low as 0.020" has been achieved within a small area. Overall wall thickness is dependent on the alloy used and the size of the surface area.
