Technology

Vacuum Casting

Vacuum casting is a fast and cost-effective copying technique for producing high-quality plastic parts that are comparable to injection-molded components. Using two-component polyurethanes and silicone molds created from a 3D-printed master, this technique is especially suitable for fit and function testing, marketing purposes, or short series of end-use parts. 

A red vacuum-cast housing on top of the silicone mold which was used to manufacture it

Why work with Materialise Manufacturing?

At Materialise, we can help you make a big impact with small series production. Our range of 26 carefully selected rubber-like, ABS-like, and PP-like polyurethanes provides an outstanding variety of properties. What's more, if you're looking for a specific finish, the teams at our dedicated vacuum casting center can match the exact finish you need for your parts.

Technical specifications

Maximum build dimensions

The size of the mold is limited by the dimensions of the vacuum chamber (1,900 x 900 x 750 mm) and by the volume of the product (maximum volume: 10 liters)

Standard accuracy

±0.3% (with a lower limit on ±0.3 mm on dimensions smaller than 100 mm)

Minimum wall thickness

At least 0.75 mm to ensure the mold is filled properly; for best results, wall thickness of at least 1.5 mm is recommended

Surface structure

High-quality surface finish comparable to injection molding

Materials

Choose from a broad selection of materials when you come to Materialise for your vacuum casting projects.

Get in touch

Would you like to ask a question or begin working on a project? We’d love to hear from you.

Talk to our team