Rapid Prototyping Vacuum Casting Silicone Parts For Automotive
Parts
Product Description
Vacuum casting specialized prototyping method that utilizes liquid
polyurethane resin injected under vacuum into flexible silicone
molds to replicate intricate components. Ideal for low-volume
bridge production during product development, it enables rapid
iteration of functional prototypes or pre-series batches. A single
high-precision silicone mold typically yields 10–30 identical
copies before degradation, balancing cost efficiency with
sufficient volume for design validatioThe inherent flexibility of
silicone molds allows unparalleled geometric freedom, enablin
reproduction of complex organic shapes (undercuts, micro-textures),
capture of fine surface details (≤0.1mm resolution), casting of
parts with zero draft angles or reverse tapers, seamless demolding
without part damage.
Advantages
Compared to traditional tooling, this process delivers significant
advantages:
1. Cost Reduction: 70–90% cheaper than metal tooling
2. Speed: Molds fabricated in 24–48 hours vs. weeks
3. Material Versatility: Simulates ABS, PP, rubber-like TPEs, or
transparent resins
4. Quality: Near-injection-molded surface finishes
Common applications include automotive interior components, medical
device ergonomic studies, and consumer electronics housings
requiring rigorous fit-testing. By combining geometric flexibility
with rapid turnaround, vacuum casting bridges the gap between
3D-printed prototypes and mass production tooling—accelerating
product development cycles while minimizing financial risk.
Technical Parameters
| Size | Customized |
| Material | ABS/PC/PVC/PA/PP/PPS/PMMA/POM/PEEK/PTFE,etc. |
| Logo | Accept Custom Logo |
| Surface Treatment | Grinding and polishing, Painting and coloring, Splicing,
Electroplating, Silk screen printing |
| Drawing Format | STP. STEP. IGS. PRT. X_T |
| Tolerances | +/- 0.01mm And As You Requested |
| Color | Ral/Pantone Color |
| Specification | As Per Design |
| Micro Machining or Not | Micro Machining |
| Packing | Foam, Carton, Wooden boxes, or as per the customer’s requirements |
Technical Support & Services
Crida’s engineers provide end-to-end technical partnership,
starting with analysis to optimize part geometry for silicone
molding—resolving undercuts, wall thickness conflicts, and venting
requirements. We guide material selection from 100+ urethanes
(simulating ABS, PP, rubber, or transparent resins) and execute
rapid mold fabrication (24-48 hours) using industrial-grade
silicones. For complex masters, we employ high-resolution 3D
printing (±0.1mm) and vacuum degassing protocols to eliminate
bubbles. Pre-casting validations include flow simulations to
predict resin behavior and thermal management plans for uniform
curing—ensuring first-time success for prototypes, bridge tooling,
or low-volume batches (10-30 parts/mold).
During production, our team monitors vacuum integrity (<5 mbar),
resin infusion rates, and demolding techniques to prevent defects
like orange peel or air entrapment. For urgent issues—mold tears,
surface flaws, or dimensional deviations—we offer 24/7 crisis
support with virtual troubleshooting (<2h response) or global
on-site intervention (48h dispatch). Post-casting services include
CMM validation (±0.15mm), cosmetic refinishing (painting, texture
matching), and functional enhancements (metal inserts, CNC
machining). Clients also access certified training in mold
maintenance, ISO-compliant inspection, and vacuum chamber
operation—turning technical challenges into competitive advantages.
FAQ
Q: How do I get a quote?
A: Please kindly provide us 3D CAD solid model in Step, IGS, X_T
format. Normally, Two-dimensional (2D) drawings are not adequate
for accurate quoting or parts making.
Please tell us your requirements on quantity, surface treatment,
color, material, and application environment for accurate pricing.
Q: Will Crida sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA)?
A: Yes. If it gives you peace of mind to sign an NDA, we are more
than willing to do so. But we have the right to keep your design
confidential no matter NDA is signed or not. All factories are
camera-monitored.
Q: What is Crida ‘s advantage?
A: 1. Abundant experience.
2. Having professional technology and high-accuracy prototypes
3. Top quality and competitive price.
4. Focus on customers’ needs.
Q: Why need to make a rapid prototype?
A: Prototypes allow the design team to test for functionality and
ensure design and fit are correct. The prototypes can be used for
sales meetings, customer presentations, and tradeshows overall
time-to-market can be reduced since accuracy in design assures a
streamlined project timeline.
Q: Can you provide OEM/ODM service?
A: Yes, we warmly welcome OEM orders. We accept OEM Logo & Package.
For MOQ and price, please contact us.
Q: What is the production time?
A: Sample lead time is within 3 working days.
Normally, mass production time is 3-7 days ------It depends on your
order quantity.
