Do you all remember the "What?! FDM 3D printed objects can also be used for lost-wax casting?!" article I shared previously? Since then, I've often heard many friends express a strong desire for molding or casting into metal parts, wanting to see actual test results. Luckily, we recently met the professional jewelry designer, Mr. Lin Hsin-da, who gave us many suggestions and guidance. He let us know that FDM 3D printers and 3D printing materials can indeed be used for lost-wax casting, and he was willing to help us contact a familiar foundry. And so, 3DMART's first 925 sterling silver mascot was "born" with a bang! Let's take a look at the process.
This time, we asked 3D model designer Mr. Lin Tsung-cheng to design this polar bear from scratch, printed with a layer thickness of 0.1. Mr. Lin Hsin-da explained that when using an FDM machine for lost-wax casting, two points need attention: first, the wall thickness should not be too thick, around 0.8mm is appropriate; second, there should be no infill inside. So, if you're worried about the top not sealing without infill, you might need to use design software or slicing software with controllable supports. We used an Ultimaker 2 machine, and of course, our star filament was the Moldlay wax-like filament.
It took about 1 hour. Since it's hollow, very little material was consumed, only 5G. It's about 4 cm wide and 4.5 cm high.
Moldlay filament has a very low temperature resistance, so be extra careful when handling it.
Look at this solid bear back and waist (just kidding), next, it's off to the professional foundry!
What?! It was finished so quickly? Oh, because the foundry's professional techniques are top secret, we couldn't delve into how it's made. However, the master who helped us said this filament is excellent; just follow the usual process. Many people have previously tested PLA, ABS, casting resins, and other 3D printing consumables, but they all had imperfections. This Moldlay is truly closer to the properties of wax. Oh my! Hearing this news was truly touching!
The casting material used is 925 sterling silver, so no worries about allergies, and the price is fair.
After casting, the master said he polished it for us, and it certainly looks sparkling.
Now, on Valentine's Day, I won't have to worry about what to give. Using 3D printing to create custom silver jewelry is as easy as pie.
The restoration rate is almost 100%. If you're concerned about the cost of sterling silver, the master said you can also use brass!
The master also mentioned that a hole would be dug at the bottom before casting to create a hollow silver ornament, otherwise, the cost would increase significantly!
After seeing this, don't you all want to quickly own your own metal piece?
I'll secretly tell you that we are currently trying to make beautiful custom rings with FDM, and we'll share it with you all later, so stay tuned!