ProTek Models Can Handle Just About Any Houston Urethane Casting Job
Urethane casting, also known as polyurethane casting or urethane molding, is a manufacturing process that involves the use of urethane, a type of polymer, to create parts and prototypes. Urethane castings provide an effective, cost-effective alternative to injection molding. The process is particularly useful for prototyping and low to medium-production runs.
ProTek Models and 3D Printing provides expert urethane casting to businesses in Houston, TX, and throughout the Lone Star state. We have the experience, equipment, and quality materials to tackle just about any urethane casting project in Houston, TX.
Advantages of Urethane Casting Compared to Injection Molding
Why are so many local businesses turning to urethane casting in Houston? Some of the benefits of urethane casting compared to injection molding include:
- Lower tooling costs compared to injection molding
- Faster turnaround times
- A wide range of urethane casting materials are available
- Urethane cast parts can be as tough and durable as those created through injection molding.
- There are several types of finishes (including high-polished, grained, brushed, leather grain, textiles, etc.) and color options to choose from.
- More versatile than injection molding
How 3D Printing is Used in the Urethane Casting Process
At ProTek, 3D printing is used during every step of the urethane casting process. First, a master pattern part is printed and finished to specifications. This pattern is used to create an impression in the silicone (RTV) mold that will be used to cast the manufactured parts. Pneumatic injection guns prevent the introduction of air into the material during the injection process to produce parts that are virtually bubble-free.
3D printing technologies such as stereolithography (SLA) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) are used to create both master patterns and molds. Integrating 3D printing into the urethane casting process offers several benefits, such as:
- Reduced lead times
- Quick and cost-effective production of master patterns, enabling rapid prototyping
- 3D printing is ideal for creating molds and patterns with intricate geometries and complex surface features.
- The flexibility of the 3D printing process allows for the cost-effective production of custom molds tailored to specific design requirements.
In many instances, our urethane cast parts are indistinguishable from injection molded parts, possessing similar strength and durability properties.
A Wide Range of Parts Can be Manufactured Using Urethane Casting
Urethane casting is a versatile process that can be used to produce a wide range of parts and components of various shapes, sizes, and material properties. Some common parts made using urethane casting include:
- Prototypes for testing and validation.
- Consumer products such as electronic device components, housings, handles, and grips.
- Medical devices, including surgical tools, equipment housings, and custom components.
- Automotive parts such as custom interior components, trim pieces, and gaskets.
- Aerospace components, including interior panels, housing for electronic equipment, and specialized components.
- Industrial parts such as seals, gaskets, bushings, and custom parts.
- Electronic devices, including electronic enclosures, covers, and housings for electronic devices.
- Toys and game pieces.
ProTek is Your Partner for Urethane Casting in Houston, TX
ProTek Models has many years of experience making patterns, silicone molds, and castings for a wide range of applications. Our entire urethane casting process – from printing the master part/pattern to finishing and painting the cast parts – is done entirely in-house.
Call us at (832) 968-6636 to find out why so many local businesses are turning to ProTek Models and 3D Printing for 3D printing and urethane casting solutions in Houston, TX.