Lost wax casting is also known as precision casting or investment castings. It is process of casting metals into desired shape and structure probably in the original sculptural forms. In lost wax casting the metal is first melted in boiler and poured into the wax casting of desired shape. When the molten metal solidifies the wax is then teared off or scratched to get the metal in desired shape.
Using this process we can cast metals into desired shape without any change.
Process involved in lost wax casting
- Wax injection
- Pattern assembly
- Shell Making
- Dewaxing by heating
- Pouring
- Shattering
- Cutting off
- Finished Casting
When to use lost wax casting?
The process is advantageous only for those metals and alloys that has high melting point. At times we need to make metal or its alloys into complex geometrical shapes. Using Lost wax casting it becomes easier and more accurate to the original form. The final product has smooth surface.
Advantages of Lost wax castings
The advantages of investment casting or lost wax castings is given bellow:-
- Thin wall
- Unlimited design freedom
- Accurate and fine details
- Smooth surface
- Relatively low tooling cost
Disadvantages of lost wax castings
- Highest casting unit price
- Greater production time
- Not appropriate method for larger parts.
Conclusion:- Lost wax casting is beneficial for those metal and alloy castings that has high melting point. In this process we mould the molten metal into desired shape using wax mould. That is why it is also known as lost wax casting or investment casting. Steel casting industries or steel casting company unit has a production unit for lost wax casting.