Prototyping with
Vacuum Casting Service

What We Offer

Simultaneous multi-color vacuum casting

Prototyping with Vacuum Casting service at INAC US leverages 3D printing models as master models for vacuum casting. We offer ultra-fast delivery times, making this process ideal for experimental designs and developmental processes.

Our unique method allows for simultaneous multi-color casting and the combination of various casting materials in a single mold. From ABS-like and PP-like urethane-based materials to acrylic-like epoxy-based and adjustable hardness elastomers, we provide an extensive range of material options. Whether it’s blending with light-diffusing agents or GF, or toning, we tailor our services to meet your specific requirements.

Specifications

MaterialsABS like (urethane based), PP like (urethane based), Acrylic like (urethane based) and elastomer like(urethane based), etc.
Standard Lead Time1 to 2 weeks
General Tolerances±0.00394 inches
Finishing OptionsToning and blending of light-diffusing agents are available.
Material can be colored to the specified color for molding. Insert molding and two-color molding are also available.
Maximum order quantities10 to 20 shots can be molded per mold.
Minimum order quantitiesWe can accommodate from one piece.

Past Works

Vacuum Casting

FEATURE:
Vacuum casting is a method in which a master model is used to create a mold from silicone rubber, and a resin material is poured into the rubber mold to manufacture parts.Unlike a mold for injection molding, if you have a master model, you can manufacture dozens of parts in a short period of time.

In addition, since there are many types of casting materials available, you can use the same silicone rubber mold to make prototypes of various materials. Different material insert casting is also possible.

Integrated Vacuum Casting

This sample is vacuum casted in a single unit, made of colored transparent material. 

Master model for reproduction can be manufactured by machining or 3D printing. We will offer the best method according to your needs. 

 MATERIAL
Urethane Base, ABS like, POM like, etc.. Various materials will be available.
Please contact us for other possible materials.
 

Simple injection molding

Vacuum cast items can be colored and toned in accordance with color sample.

Color Variation

  • Clear
  • Clear color
  • Solid clor
  • Pearl color
  • Glitter

 
Material Variation

  • ABS like
  • PP like
  • Acrylic like
  • Elastomer

vs. Other Processing Methods

vs. CNC Machining

Advantages of Vacuum casting:

  • Faster and cheaper for small to medium quantities.
  • Allows for simultaneous multi-color casting and combining various materials in a single mold.
  • Easy modification of the master model for design changes.


Disadvantages o
Vacuum casting:

  • Not as precise as CNC machining.
  • Limited material choices compared to CNC Machining.
  • Not suitable for large-scale production.

vs. 3D Printing

Advantages of Vacuum casting:

  • Can produce parts with better surface finish.
  • Suitable for multi-color and multi-material casting.

 

Disadvantages of Vacuum casting:

  • Slower than 3D printing for very small quantities.
  • Not as versatile as 3D printing for complex geometric designs.

vs. Injection Molding

Advantages of Vacuum casting:

  • Faster and cheaper for small to medium quantities.
  • Allows for design changes without significant costs.
  • Soft silicone molds can be used, allowing products with undercut shapes to be forcibly removed to some extent.

 
Disadvantages of Vacuum casting:

  • Not suitable for large-scale production.
  • Limited materials are available.

FAQs

39.37 inches x 19.69 inches x 3.94 inches. (depends on shapes)

ABS like (urethane based), PP like (urethane based), Acrylic like (urethane based) and elastomer like(urethane based), etc.

The following factors affect cost: material, form, dimensional accuracy, finish level, delivery date, quantity.

We can accept solid 3D CAD models in IGES (.igs), STEP (.stp), PARASOLID(.x_t) or STL(.stl).
If the original exists, we can make a mold from it and mold it.

Get In Touch!

If you have something you want to make, please contact us. Even a rough idea is OK.

We will give shape to your idea and deliver it to you. Please feel free to contact us.

STEP5: Quality Assurance and Precision Inspection

A quality inspection is performed. At INAC, where quality comes first, we use CMMs, gauges, and other equipment for precision checks.

STEP4: Post-Processing and Finishing

Finishing is done by removing the supports, polishing, and applying transparency treatment. It is also possible to paint and apply plating to the formed product.

STEP3: UV-Laser Print Formation (SLA Process)

Output: The product is formed by irradiating the liquid with a laser beam of UV light and laminating it. The conditions of the external environment, such as room temperature and humidity, must be maintained.

STEP2: Model Program Generation and Support Adjustment

A program for model formation is created. Depending on the shape, it may be necessary to adjust the degree of tilt and the position of the supports.

STEP1: CAD File Submission

Upload your CAD to our online quoting platform.

STEP 3: Rendering and Scene Integration

We can also handle exterior modeling and interior structure design based on illustrations. After creating the 3D models, we can create a rendering to fit a scene. We can deliver images even if we do not proceed with production.

STEP 2: Detailed Design and 3D Modeling

Once the design is determined, drawings and 3D models will be created. The structure will be examined, taking into consideration not only the external design but also functionalities such as mating and sliding.

STEP 1: Initial Design Consultation

The first step is a meeting to discuss the project. Drawings are not required for this meeting. We will create a design from a sketch based on the overall image and concept that you have in mind.

STEP5: Quality Assurance and Inspection

We perform quality inspections. At INAC, where quality comes first, we use CMMs, gauges, and other equipment for precision checks.

STEP4: Post-Casting Finishing

Vacuum casting materials are cured and then taken out of the silicone rubber mold. Then we perform finishing such as deburring and gating, and they are made into finish products.

STEP3:Material Injuction

Liquid casting material is injected into the silicone rubber mold in a vacuum environment. 

STEP2: Mold Preparation

The silicone mold is cut open into a male and female mold, and the master model is removed.

STEP1: Mold Creation

The master model is fixed to a wooden frame and silicone is poured to create a mold.