立科模型公司
Urethane Casting Service for
Low-Volume Production
Produce high-fidelity polyurethane parts with production-like properties, custom colors, and textures. LKprototype bridges the gap between 3D printing and injection molding with rapid silicone tooling.
What is Urethane Casting?
Urethane casting (also known as polyurethane casting) is a versatile manufacturing process that utilizes a silicone mold to replicate high-quality parts from a master pattern. It is the gold standard for engineers requiring functional prototypes that simulate the physical properties of injection-molded plastics.
The process is often categorized as Vacuum Casting because the resin is poured under vacuum to ensure zero air bubbles and perfect replication of intricate textures. At LKprototype, we use this process to support market testing, bridge production, and high-end appearance models.
Technical Capabilities
| Parameter | Engineering Specification |
|---|---|
| Standard Lead Time | 5–10 Business Days (Standard Project) |
| Typical Tolerance | ±0.15 mm per 100 mm (±0.005” per 4”) |
| Minimum Wall Thickness | Recommended 1.0 mm (0.5 mm in small localized areas) |
| Max Part Dimensions | [VERIFY: 1000mm x 600mm x 500mm] |
| Mold Life | Approximately 20–25 shots per silicone mold |
| Materials | Rigid (ABS/PC/PP-like), Elastomers (30A-90A), High-temp |
| Post-Processing | Painting, Polishing, Texture Matching, Silk-screening |
Material Simulation Library
ABS-Like (Rigid)
High impact strength and stiffness. Excellent for electronic enclosures, consumer products, and structural prototypes.
PC-Like / Transparent
High clarity for lenses, light guides, and clear covers. Can be polished to water-clear transparency.
Urethane Casting Design Guidelines
Draft Angles
Although silicone is flexible, a 1-degree draft angle is recommended to simplify demolding and extend mold life.
Undercuts
Silicone molds allow for deep undercuts and complex geometries that would require expensive slides in injection molding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is Urethane Casting?
Our typical tolerance is ±0.15 mm per 100 mm. For larger parts, shrinkage should be considered during the DFM phase.
What is the difference between Urethane and Vacuum Casting?
Technically, they are the same process in rapid prototyping. Vacuum casting refers to the vacuum environment used to ensure resin fills the mold without bubbles.
