As part of our casting solutions, at Ashland Foundry & Machine Works, we offer rapid prototyping services. We leverage game-changing robotic additive manufacturing technology to transform designs into castings in a matter of days. Engineering oriented, our on-demand 3D printing technology allows us to dramatically expedite the otherwise time-intensive tool building process and help customers accelerate product development. Our combination of quality, turnaround time, and pricing is impressive.
Tapping into our 3D mold printing capabilities, we print sand molds and cores compatible with ferrous and non-ferrous casting operations. We create functional molds that generate everything from high-quality visual prototypes to fully functioning operational models with precise metallurgical properties. We cast prototypes using stainless steel, nickel, copper, and high-value exotic alloys. Our build envelope allows us to produce small castings as well as those measuring as large as 72” long x 36” wide x 36” high.
With additive manufacturing technology, we have the freedom to create complex designs and then quickly edit the design file to make updates and changes as development progresses. In addition to cost savings over conventional tooling, and time savings over conventional tool building, we even improve part quality.
We achieve greater dimensional repeatability and finer surface finishes of complex internal passages when using printed cores. This added bonus is most evident and valued with our production of closed impellers, pump bowls and valve bodies.
Many of our customers appreciate the flexibility that printed molds and cores afford. Dimensional changes between runs can be made expeditiously. They are no longer bound to the initial design associated with conventional patterns and coreboxes. Finally, there is no tool wear with printed molds which allows greater dimensional repeatability which means your machined castings clean up as intended. Whether you need 1 or 10 large stainless steel castings, printed molds and cores may be the solution to meet your project needs.
To learn more about the benefits of our rapid prototyping services or to request a quote, contact us directly