Difference between Lost Wax Casting and Investment Casting

Lost wax casting is a process that goes back to ancient times, with the first known uses of the technique dating all the way back to around 3700 B.C. Lost wax casting is the process whereby a metal sculpture is made from an original cast, which was often made of silver, gold, brass, or bronze. In modern times, industrial castings are often done in an investment casting foundry, and the process is typically referred to as investment casting.

Although the modern process is typically referred to as investment casting, even today it can still be referred to as lost wax casting. In the earliest uses, beeswax was used to form the necessary patterns for the casting process. In order to remove the duplicate cast, that was is then destroyed or lost during the process.

An investment casting company will carry out the process in their foundry, with a complex, precise process. Modern processes use more advanced waxes, materials, and alloys to make patterns, allowing more of the materials to be reclaimed and reused for future castings. In both ancient and modern practices, the wax must be resilient enough to withstand the force and pressure that it faces during the process.

Precision investment casting has major benefits in business today with its ability to produce parts or components that are versatile and repeatable, in addition to being cost effective. Today’s investment casting methods allow for great design flexibility, allowing for maximum versatility. This includes the use of high strength/low weight metals that are resistant to extreme temperatures or corrosion.

Because investment casting has become a more standardized process, it has become more efficient than lost wax casting of old. This offers lower costs and quicker prototypes that helps get new products to the market faster and at a lower cost. Advances in technology have allowed for investment castings to be made with high quality that allows for reliability and durability, especially when all of the process is controlled and manufactured under one roof.

At Intercast, we specialize in precision investment castings that are cost effective while maintaining the highest quality standards. With over 125 years of combined experience among our leadership team, we understand the needs of our clients and work tirelessly to make sure your casting is done exactly the way you need it.

All of our casting is done in our modern foundry, which offers world-class pricing, high quality, and outstanding communication between offices. If your business needs investment casting work done, contact us today to let us know how we can help. Our experience spans industries as diverse as aerospace to food equipment to oil & gas. Let our precise investment castings improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your business.