Casting Patterns are the most frequently used manufacturing application using automated digital manufacturing equipment such as 3D printers, milling systems and other prototyping technologies.
The part is first designed in CAD, then output in a 3D prnter or other output device, then attached to a casting tree and cast using conventional investment casting techniques to produce jewelry parts.
Cadblu supports each of these technologies by integrating software, scanning systems, output systems and process knowledge to provide turn-key manufacturing systems:
| Technology/Manufacturer | Model(s) | Finished Part Uses |
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"Subtractive" (Machining) Processes |
Automatic Tool Changer Equipped Benchtop Mills (Roland DGA - modified by CadBlu)
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Benchtop mills and tooling wax are used to mill casting patterns from CAD data, but can also mill in other more durable materials for models, functional prototypes, or even end-use parts in some cases. |
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"Additive" (Rapid Prototyping) Systems |
Solidscape
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Used to produce casting patterns for investment casting of jewelry and other small geometries. |
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3D Systems
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Stereolithography (SLA systems) and other RP equipment
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Call CadBlu to learn more about rapid manufacturing with SLA or other RP systems. |
Stereolithography and other RP equipment - "grow" a part (or batch of parts) directly from a machine, using a CAD data file as input. No tool or mold is ever created, and the part is the end-use part used in a production process. |