Vacuum Casting Services

Frigate employs vacuum casting for precise, high-quality prototypes and low-volume production. We achieve optimal material consistency, minimized porosity, and tight dimensional tolerances. 

Our Clients

vacuum casting services

Advantages of Vacuum Casting Services

Enhanced Surface Finish

The process delivers parts with smooth, high-quality surfaces, reducing the need for additional finishing and improving visual appeal.

Faster Turnaround Time

Vacuum casting offers quick production cycles, enabling faster delivery of prototypes and low-volume parts, shortening development timelines.

Material Property Replication

Vacuum casting closely mimics the properties of final production materials, ensuring prototypes function similarly to their mass-produced counterparts.

Low-Volume Production Capability

Ideal for small production runs, vacuum casting provides a flexible solution for manufacturing limited quantities without costly molds or tooling.

Custom Vacuum Casting Services for Precision and Reliability

Custom vacuum casting provides high-precision prototypes and low-volume production with minimal porosity and tight dimensional tolerances. This method accurately replicates complex geometries and fine details, ensuring parts meet design specifications. It supports a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and elastomers, offering flexibility for diverse applications. Vacuum casting enables rapid production, reducing lead times and accelerating development cycles. With excellent material property replication, parts produced through this process closely resemble their final production counterparts, ensuring functionality and durability in real-world applications. 

vacuum casting services

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Our Vacuum Casting Process

Master Pattern Creation

To capture the exact design details, a master pattern of the part is made, typically using 3D printing or CNC machining. 

Mold Preparation

The master pattern is placed in a mold box, covered with silicone rubber, and then cured to form the mold. 

Vacuum Setup

The silicone mold is placed in a vacuum chamber, and the air is removed to prevent air pockets or bubbles in the mold. 

Material Pouring

The chosen material, often resin or metal, is heated and poured into the vacuum mold under low pressure, ensuring even flow and minimal defects.

Curing and Cooling

The cast material can cure and solidify in the mold, accurately replicating the pattern’s shape and features. 

Finishing

Once cooled, the cast part is removed from the mold, and any finishing touches, such as sanding or polishing, are applied to achieve the desired surface finish. 

Post-Processing Services in Vacuum Casting

Post-processing in vacuum casting enhances component quality and performance for various industries. These services refine surfaces, improve durability, and meet specific technical needs. 

Surface Finishing
Roughness (Ra): 0.1 - 2 µm
Gloss Level: 10 - 90%

Automotive (dashboard panels), Consumer Electronics (casings) 

Painting & Coating
Film Thickness: 10 - 50 µm
Hardness (Rockwell): 60-80

Medical (device housings), Consumer Goods (custom enclosures) 

Polishing
Surface Finish: 0.1 - 0.25 µm
Hardness (Vickers): 150-300

Aerospace (interior components), Luxury Goods (decorative parts) 

Electroplating
Plating Thickness: 5 - 50 µm
Hardness: 200-500 HV

Automotive (grilles, trims), Electronics (connectors) 

Dyeing
Depth of Color: 0.2 - 0.5 mm
Color Stability: ≥5 years

Consumer Electronics (buttons, covers), Fashion (accessories) 

Heat Treatment
Temperature: 150 - 220°C
Time: 1 - 3 hours

Automotive (heat-resistant components), Industrial Equipment 

Machining
Tolerance: ±0.05 - ±0.1 mm
Surface Finish: Ra 0.4 - 1.6 µm

Aerospace (fittings), Medical (precise instrument parts) 

Sealing & Waterproofing
Ingress Protection (IP): IP65 - IP68

Electronics (sensor housings), Marine (control panels) 

Texturing & Engraving
Depth of Engraving: 0.05 - 0.5 mm
Laser Power: 20 - 200 W

Branding (logos, serial numbers), Consumer Goods (custom textures) 

Bonding & Assembly
Bonding Strength: 10 - 30 MPa
Assembly Tolerance: ±0.1 mm

Medical (multi-part devices), Automotive (complex assemblies) 

Methoding in Vacuum Casting

Mold Type
Metal, Silicone, Ceramic

Automotive (high-strength parts), Aerospace (complex geometries) 

Mold Temperature
150°C - 350°C

Aerospace (thermal-resistant components), Automotive (engine parts) 

Core Material
Sand, Resin, Metal Inserts

Automotive (engine blocks), Medical (housings) 

Vacuum Pressure
20 - 100 kPa

Aerospace (defect-free casting), Electronics (smooth finishes) 

Casting Temperature
200°C - 400°C

Automotive (heat-resistant components), Medical (custom devices) 

Casting Time
30 seconds - 5 minutes

Aerospace (structural parts), Consumer Electronics (casing) 

Part Weight
10 g - 5 kg

Consumer Electronics (lightweight components), Automotive (heavy-duty parts) 

Injection Pressure
50 - 200 MPa

Medical (precision devices), Industrial Equipment (gears, housings) 

Cycle Time
30 - 120 seconds

Automotive (high-volume parts), Aerospace (high-precision components) 

vacuum casting services

Vacuum Casting Materials

Vacuum casting provides high-precision, low-volume production with excellent detail replication. This process ensures tight tolerances and smooth surfaces for functional prototypes. 

Polyurethane Resins

Polyurethane Resins are ideal for creating durable, high-fidelity prototypes with excellent surface finish. They are available in various hardness levels, from soft to rigid, offering versatility for both functional and aesthetic parts. 

Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber is used for producing flexible components. It has high tear resistance and can endure extreme temperatures. It’s commonly chosen for parts that require elasticity, such as seals, gaskets, and soft-touch products. 

Epoxy Resins

Epoxies are known for their high mechanical strength, low shrinkage, and superior adhesion. They are suitable for parts requiring dimensional stability and resistance to wear and are often used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications. 

Aluminum Alloys

Aluminum-based alloys provide lightweight, high-strength parts with excellent thermal conductivity. Vacuum casting with aluminum alloys is ideal for producing components that need good corrosion resistance and heat dissipation, and it is often used in automotive and aerospace. 

Zinc Alloys

Zinc alloys offer good casting fluidity, high strength, and resistance to corrosion. They are commonly used for precision parts requiring tight tolerances and are frequently employed in electronics, automotive, and hardware applications. 

Copper Alloys

Copper-based alloys, such as bronze and brass, are selected for their high thermal and electrical conductivity. They are often used in parts that handle electrical currents or high temperatures, such as connectors, heatsinks, and industrial components. 

Acrylics and Polycarbonates

These transparent materials provide high-impact resistance and optical clarity. Polycarbonates, in particular, offer superior strength and heat resistance, making them ideal for components used in lighting, displays, and protective covers. 

Cost-Effective Solution for Small-Batch Production

Vacuum casting provides a precise and cost-effective solution for small-batch production. Unlike traditional methods that require costly tooling for low-volume runs, this technique efficiently produces high-quality parts in smaller quantities. Frigate’s vacuum casting services utilize quick-turnaround silicone molds, significantly reducing setup costs and lead times. This makes it ideal for prototypes, short production runs, and customized components while maintaining high precision and performance. 

vacuum casting services

Compliance for Vacuum Casting Services

Frigate adheres to stringent industry standards for Vacuum Casting services, ensuring high precision, safety, and environmental compliance. We follow rigorous protocols to guarantee the highest product quality. Our processes align with global regulations, ensuring reliable and consistent results. Each component is manufactured with strict attention to detail, meeting performance and safety benchmarks. 

ISO 9001:2015

Quality management system ensuring product consistency and continuous process improvement.

ISO 14001:2015

Environmental management system focusing on sustainable practices and reducing ecological impact. 

RoHS (Directive 2011/65/EU)

Restriction of hazardous substances, ensuring components are free from dangerous materials. 

REACH (EC 1907/2006)

European regulation for the safe use of chemicals, ensuring chemical safety in materials. 

AS9100D

Aerospace standard ensuring the highest quality control and traceability for critical aerospace components. 

FDA 21 CFR Part 820

Medical device regulation ensuring compliance with safety and performance requirements for medical-grade components. 

Tonnage / Capacity in Vacuum Casting

Tonnage and capacity are critical factors in vacuum casting, influencing the precision, speed, and quality of the final components. The right parameters ensure that parts are produced efficiently, with optimal material properties and minimal defects. 

Clamping Force
20 - 4000 kN (depending on mold size and material)

Automotive (large moldings), Aerospace (high-strength parts) 

Shot Weight
10 g - 5 kg

Consumer Electronics (small components), Industrial Equipment (medium parts) 

Cavity Pressure
50 - 200 MPa

Medical Devices (precise parts), Aerospace (complex geometries) 

Cycle Time
30 - 120 seconds

Automotive (high-volume production), Consumer Goods (small enclosures) 

Injection Pressure
0.1 - 0.5 m/s

Automotive (lightweight parts), Electronics (fine detail parts) 

Mold Temperature
100°C - 350°C

Aerospace (high-temperature resistant parts), Automotive (thermal components) 

Material Viscosity Range
50 - 1500 cP (depending on material)

Medical (soft-touch components), Consumer Electronics (high-precision molds) 

Vacuum Pressure
20 - 100 kPa

Aerospace (defect-free casting), Electronics (smooth finishes) 

Dimensions in Vacuum Casting

Dimensions play a crucial role in vacuum casting, affecting the precision and functionality of the final components. Accurate dimensional control ensures that parts meet strict design specifications, with minimal deviations. 

Dimensional Tolerance
±0.05 mm to ±0.2 mm

Aerospace (fittings), Automotive (precision parts) 

Part Length
10 mm - 1000 mm

Automotive (exterior trims), Consumer Electronics (buttons) 

Part Width
5 mm - 800 mm

Medical Devices (housing), Industrial Equipment (components) 

Part Height
2 mm - 500 mm

Electronics (small enclosures), Aerospace (thin-walled parts) 

Wall Thickness
0.5 mm - 10 mm

Automotive (interior parts), Consumer Electronics (housing) 

Aspect Ratio
1:1 to 5:1 (Length to Width)

Aerospace (structural components), Automotive (complex shapes) 

Part Weight
10 g - 5 kg

Consumer Electronics (lightweight parts), Automotive (heavy components) 

vacuum casting services

Tolerance for Vacuum Casting Services

Wall Thickness
±0.05 mm to ±0.2 mm

Tolerance on the uniformity of part wall thickness. 

Roundness
≤0.05 mm

Deviation from a perfect circle on cylindrical features. 

Perpendicularity
±0.1 mm

Deviation between a surface and a reference surface, ensuring 90° angles. 

Location Tolerance
±0.1 mm

Tolerance on the location of features relative to other features. 

Circularity
≤0.1 mm

Deviation from a perfect circular cross-section in round features. 

Position Tolerance
±0.05 mm to ±0.2 mm

Tolerance on the location of holes, slots, and features. 

Thickness Variation
±0.05 mm

Variation in thickness across the surface or wall of the part. 

Angular Tolerance
±0.2°

Deviation in angles between surfaces or features. 

Parallelism of Faces
±0.1 mm

Deviation in the parallelism between two reference faces. 

Conformance to CAD
±0.05 mm

Deviation from the design model, ensuring the part matches the CAD file closely. 

vacuum casting services

Quality Testing Standards for Vacuum Casting Services

Dimensional Accuracy
Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Measures the part’s dimensions with high precision against CAD specifications. 

Surface Integrity
Optical Microscopy / Profilometer

Inspects surface for defects such as cracks, voids, or inconsistencies in texture. 

Mechanical Strength
Tensile Testing (ASTM E8)

Assesses the material's strength under tension and its ability to deform before breaking. 

Hardness
Rockwell or Vickers Hardness Test

Evaluates material hardness to ensure durability and wear resistance. 

Porosity
X-ray or Ultrasonic Testing

Detects internal voids or bubbles that can affect part integrity and strength. 

Thermal Properties
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

Measures heat flow and phase transitions to determine material stability at different temperatures. 

Fatigue Resistance
Rotating Bending Fatigue Testing (ASTM E466)

Evaluates the material’s resistance to cyclic loading and its lifespan under stress. 

Chemical Composition
Spectrometry or X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)

Analyzes material to ensure compliance with alloy specifications and regulatory standards. 

Impact Resistance
Charpy Impact Testing (ASTM E23)

Determines the material’s ability to absorb impact energy without fracturing. 

Density & Porosity
Archimedes Principle or Hydrostatic Weighing

Determines the material's density and checks for internal voids or inconsistencies. 

Dimensional Stability
Thermal Expansion Testing (ASTM D696)

Measures how material dimensions change under temperature fluctuations, ensuring stability in varying environments. 

Leakage Integrity
Ensures the component maintains its structural integrity under pressure or vacuum conditions, without leaks.

Ensures the component maintains its structural integrity under pressure or vacuum conditions, without leaks. 

Inspection Techniques in Vacuum Casting

Visual Inspection
Parameters - Surface Finish, Color, Defects

Surface roughness (Ra): 0.1 - 2 µm

Gloss: 10 - 90%   

Aerospace (interior panels), Automotive (exterior parts) 

Dimensional Measurement
Parameters - Tolerances, Part Geometry

Tolerance: ±0.05 mm to ±0.2 mm 

Medical Devices (housings), Industrial Equipment (brackets) 

X-Ray Radiography
Parameters - Internal Defects, Voids, Cracks

Resolution: 0.1 - 1 mm

Penetration Depth: 20 - 50 mm 

Aerospace (structural components), Automotive (engine parts) 

Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
Parameters - Material Density, Porosity

Frequency: 0.5 - 10 MHz

Thickness: 1 - 50 mm   

Medical (implantable devices), Aerospace (critical components) 

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
Parameters - 3D Accuracy, Geometric Shape

Accuracy: ±0.01 mm

Range: 500 x 500 x 500 mm   

Automotive (complex geometries), Electronics (connectors) 

Thermography
Parameters - Material Integrity, Heat Distribution

Temperature Range: -20°C to 500°C 

Electronics (power components), Aerospace (insulation parts) 

Hardness Testing
Parameters - Surface Hardness

Hardness (Rockwell): 60 - 80, Vickers: 150-300 HV   

Automotive (machinery components), Aerospace (wear-resistant parts) 

Leakage Testing
Parameters - Sealing, Pressure Loss

Pressure: 1 - 10 bar

Time: 1 - 10 minutes 

Medical (airtight enclosures), Automotive (sensor housings) 

vacuum casting services
vacuum casting services

Industry Applications of Vacuum Casting

Automotive
High-performance parts requiring low weight and complex shapes

Engine blocks, Turbocharger components, Lighting housings 

Aerospace
Precision, lightweight, and high-strength components for critical systems

Aircraft brackets, Landing gear parts, Engine housings 

Consumer Electronics
Complex, fine-detail parts with tight tolerances for enclosures and mechanisms

Smartphone casings, Wearable device components, Remote controls 

Medical Devices
High-precision and biocompatible components for medical equipment

Prosthetic parts, Diagnostic devices, Implantable components 

Industrial Equipment
Manufacturing of high-strength, durable components for heavy machinery

Hydraulic parts, Valve bodies, Pump components 

Fashion & Accessories
Production of customized, intricate designs for luxury items and prototypes

Watch cases, Eyewear frames, Belt buckles 

Marine
Manufacturing of corrosion-resistant, durable components for maritime environments

Boat fittings, Marine electronics, Hull components 

Defense
High-reliability components used in critical defense systems

Armor plating, Tactical equipment housings, Sensor covers 

Energy & Power
Creating precision parts for energy generation and storage equipment

Wind turbine components, Generator housings, Battery casings 

Robotics
High-performance, complex parts for robotic systems and automation

Robotic arms, Precision gears, Actuators 

Telecommunications
Manufacturing of high-frequency components and enclosures for telecom equipment

Antenna casings, Signal boosters, Base station housings 

Optimizing Consumer Product Manufacturing with Vacuum Casting Technology

Balancing production efficiency and part quality can challenge consumer product manufacturing. Vacuum casting eliminates this issue by enabling the precise, low-volume production of complex components with reduced lead times. This process allows for creating detailed and accurate prototypes that simulate real-world performance, reducing the need for time-consuming post-processing. With the ability to handle a wide variety of materials, vacuum casting ensures that every component produced meets both functional and aesthetic requirements. 

Industries We Serve

What You Gain with Us

We make your profitability and operations easier with practical approach.

vacuum casting services
vacuum casting services

↓ 7-8%

OPS COST

vacuum casting services

↓ 2-3%

COGM

vacuum casting services

3X

Aggregation

vacuum casting services

↑ 25%

Machinery Utilisation

vacuum casting services

↓ 50%

Expedition

vacuum casting services

↑ 30%

Frigater Revenue

Achieving Consistent, High-Quality Surface Finishes

Achieving consistent surface quality without extensive post-processing is a common challenge with conventional casting. Vacuum casting, however, delivers superior surface finishes due to the controlled vacuum environment that eliminates air bubbles and other defects. This results in parts with minimal surface imperfections, reducing the need for additional finishing work. Frigate’s vacuum casting process ensures high-quality surfaces, even for complex geometries, allowing parts to meet exacting standards with minimal additional effort or time spent on post-production. 

vacuum casting services
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Having Doubts? Our FAQ

Check all our Frequently Asked Question

How does vacuum casting ensure consistent material properties across multiple production runs?

Vacuum casting maintains consistent material properties using precise temperature control during material pouring and curing. The vacuum environment eliminates air pockets, ensuring uniform density and mechanical characteristics in each batch. 

What is the impact of the vacuum environment on the material’s mechanical performance?

The vacuum environment removes trapped gases, leading to denser, stronger materials with enhanced mechanical properties. This results in improved tensile strength, impact resistance, and reduced brittleness, which is critical for parts subjected to stress. 

Can vacuum casting replicate the material properties of metals and alloys for prototypes?

Yes, vacuum casting can closely replicate metal properties using specialized resins or metal-filled materials. For metals like aluminum or zinc, casting can achieve near-identical strength and thermal conductivity, making prototypes functionally representative of final production parts. 

How does the vacuum casting process manage high-precision tolerances for tight-fitting parts?

Combining the vacuum chamber and controlled curing ensures minimal shrinkage and precise mold formation. This results in tight tolerances (often within ±0.1mm), making vacuum casting ideal for parts that require perfect fit and functionality. 

What role does the material selection play in achieving part durability and performance in vacuum casting?

Material selection is crucial in vacuum casting, directly influencing the part’s strength, flexibility, and durability. Advanced resins and alloys are chosen based on their specific mechanical properties, ensuring the final part meets the performance criteria for each unique application. 

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LOCATIONS

Global Sales Office

818, Preakness lane, Coppell, Texas, USA – 75019

Registered Office

23, 6th West Street, Balaji Nagar, Kattur,  Pappakuruchi, Tiruchirappalli-620019, Tamil Nadu, India.

Operations Office

9/1, Poonthottam Nagar, Ramanandha Nagar, Saravanampatti, Coimbatore-641035, Tamil Nadu, India. ㅤ

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