Small-Batch Casting

Plastic casting in silicone molds is a method for small-batch production of plastic parts of virtually any complexity. This technology is becoming increasingly popular due to its low cost, high detail, and rapid production of plastic products. It allows for the creation of an exact replica of the original item or from a 3D model.



For large-scale production of goods, industrial molds and specialized equipment are used. This involves setting up an entire facility, with the process of creating products taking a significant amount of time and resources. However, if you are entering the market with a small quantity of products (up to a few hundred units) or simply need one or several quality copies of a part, fitting, figure, spare part, etc., using silicone mold casting will not only save you money but also ensure optimal quality of the finished product.

By choosing this service, you have no limitations, as it allows for the creation of items in any shape and complexity, with any type of surface and color.

Often, owners of 3D printers encounter the need to obtain a batch of models quickly, recreate a successful part, or produce items with specific characteristics (such as rigidity or flexibility) that exceed the properties of models produced using standard plastics for home 3D printing.

A 3D printer is not always capable of meeting such demands but is excellent for creating a single sample or master model. Casting parts with threads, logos, textures, and detailed features on order from 3DTrade is a great way to achieve a small-batch production in a short timeframe!

• Manufacturing industrial products, spare parts, and components from plastic.
• Developing models and casting plastic housings.
• Casting thin-walled plastic parts.
• Producing elastic parts of various hardness levels.
• Custom manufacturing of finished items for design, souvenir production, and promotional products.
• Producing seals for food industry equipment from food-grade silicone.
• Making silicone molds for baking and other food products.
• Creating models and molds for casting soap, candles, gypsum, and concrete.

Plastic Casting in Silicone: Stages

1. Creating the Master Model: This is the model from which the silicone mold will be cast. A solid 3D model is printed, which can be sanded and polished as needed, or an existing part from the customer can be used; however, this may result in the part being damaged during the molding process.

2. Preparing the Model for Casting: This involves working on the mold parting line, sealing all holes, reinforcing deep grooves, and applying additional texture if necessary.

3. Forming the Gating System: This step involves creating a system that allows the liquid material to flow into the mold.

4. Making the Silicone Mold: Silicone is poured into the master model. The filled mold is then placed in a vacuum chamber for degassing.

5. Casting: The liquid solution is poured into the preheated silicone mold through a funnel, filling all cavities, followed by polymerization. The blank is then extracted, and if necessary, the process is repeated.

You can use a small batch of cast products to test customer response or for product certification while simultaneously producing a large batch. This way, you can bring a new product to market at a low cost and within a tight timeframe. You can also obtain individually crafted parts, fittings, or any other small components, avoiding the complexities of manufacturing or long delivery times.

By using our company’s services, the customer can expect diligent execution of the assigned task. 3DTrade will do everything possible to ensure you are satisfied with the outcome of our collaboration and receive exactly what you wanted!