CAM-LEM, Inc.
Ceramic and Metal Component Prototyping
~ Functional Prototypes and Production ~

Green Casting

CAM-LEM, Inc. uses our own custom formulated casting mixes to produce high-integrity ceramic components directly from rapidly-prototyped molds.   We create multi-part molds from the CAD file description using a rapid prototyping system, or create epoxy molds from the rapidly prototyped part. The cast parts are "green", having ceramic or metal powder bound by an organic binder that holds the shape and provides some flexibility during demolding.  During processing the binder is removed and the part sintered to densify into solid ceramic or metal.

Advantages of our casting process include:

  • lead times are comparable to rapid prototyping so parts can be turned around within a week or two
  • semi-permanent tooling means additional samples can be created quickly and inexpensively
  • controlled porosity from 60% to near full density helps optimize thermal properties
  • very good surface finish is possible on finished molds
We can accommodate a wide variety of ceramics and metals using this technique, including alumina, silicon nitride, and 316L stainless steel.
Rapidly Prototyped Casting Mold Green-cast ceramic parts
Rapidly-prototyped
Casting Mold
Cast Ceramic Components
About 16 cm / 14 cm tall
 

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Last modified 2005 September 12 bbm@camlem.com