Lost wax casting, also known as investment casting, is an ancient and sophisticated metal casting process. Through this method, craftsmen are able to create complex and exquisite metal products. This article will explore the historical origins of lost wax casting, the process flow, its application in different cultures, and its status in modern industry and art.
1. Historical Origin of Lost Wax Casting
The history of lost wax casting can be traced back thousands of years. Archaeologists have discovered ancient metal products made using the lost wax method all over the world. In China, the application of the lost wax method can be traced back to at least the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period. For example, the bronze zun and plate unearthed from the Zenghou Yi Tomb in Sui County, Hubei Province are considered to be the earliest known lost wax castings in China, dating back to about the fifth century BC.
KEPUCHINA.CN
In other regions, such as ancient Egypt, India, and the Middle East, lost wax casting also has a long history. Craftsmen in these regions used the lost wax method to make religious statues, jewelry, and daily necessities, demonstrating the wide application and importance of this process.
2. Process of Lost Wax Casting
<a href="https://dz-machining.com/lost-wax-casting/">Lost wax casting process</a> is a precise and complex process, and its basic process is as follows:
Making wax mold: First, use beeswax or other fusible materials to make a model of the required casting. Craftsmen can finely shape the details of the wax mold by carving, pressing and other methods.
Assembling wax mold: For complex castings, it may be necessary to combine multiple wax parts to form a complete wax mold assembly. Reserve gates and exhaust channels on the wax mold for subsequent metal pouring.
Shell making: Dip the wax mold into refractory ceramic slurry, take it out and sprinkle it with fine sand, and wait for it to dry. Repeat this process several times until a ceramic shell of sufficient thickness and strength is formed.
Dewaxing: Heat the prepared ceramic shell to melt and flow out the wax mold inside, leaving a cavity. This process is called "lost wax", which is also the origin of the name of the process.
Baking the ceramic shell: Further heat the ceramic shell to the required high temperature to enhance its strength and remove residual wax.
Metal pouring: Pour the molten metal into the preheated ceramic shell cavity, making sure that the metal fills all the details.
Cooling and shelling: After the metal cools and solidifies, break the ceramic shell and take out the metal casting. Then, carry out necessary finishing and surface treatment, such as grinding and polishing.
This series of steps requires a high degree of skill and experience to ensure the quality and precision of the final casting.
Blog follow link: