Specialized Castings is a leading provider of quality custom prototype & short run castings. Prototype castings can be produced fast to meet project deadlines sometimes in as few as 7 days with typical lead times of 1 to 2 weeks. We use a combination of the following different prototype methods that best suit your project:
– Rubber Plaster Molds (RPM)
– Greensand method
– No-bake or Air-Set
– SLA (Stereo Lithography)
Prototype castings generally begin with an SLA pattern but wood and plastic patterns are also used in certain applications. The SLA patterns are the most common with a fabrication speed of about 2 or 3 days. The SLA prototype volumes are usually low, ranging from 1 to 25 pieces, but higher volumes are not uncommon.
Short Run Castings Specialists
Prototype castings are produced via Rubber Plaster Molds (RPM) for superior finish and simulated die casting with thin sections. The greensand method is used for castings with thicker sections and when a high finish is not required. The no-bake, or air-set, sand process is used for larger castings with thicker sections and intricate core work with a typical finish in between the RPM and greensand processes.
Prototype weights vary depending on the process but range from ounces to 4,000 lbs. Prototype quantities also vary from one to several hundred pieces. The prototyping services add value to your business by allowing you to perform pre-production product testing, evaluate potential markets, and display visual aids in sales presentations or trade show exhibits.
Prototype & Short Run Castings Capabilities
| Maximum Mold Weight | Plaster Process: 1,000 lbs Sand Process: 20,000 lbs |
| Flask Size | 12″ x 12″ 96″ x 144″ |
| Design Tolerances | +/- 0.010 |
| Draft Angles | 0.5 to 2 degrees |
| Pouring Capabilities | Plaster: 50 lbs Sand: 4,000 lbs |
| Equipment | (7) Furnaces (2) Drying ovens (4) Molding stations Mixer |
| Secondary Services | Pattern Making CNC Machining Certified Inspection Heat Treating and Coatings X-ray Misc. Testing |