This episode is Part 2 of a 2-Part series addressing a steel casting producer’s challenge of launching new business… the launch of a customer’s new design.  Part 1 addressed the “Why” of the rarely used, but undeniably efficient use of “Immediate Prototyping.”

Part 2 addresses the need for and ability of “Immediate” when applying the power of Additive (and Subtractive) Manufacturing processes.  Because of the continuing expansion of the breadth and depth of Additive Manufacturing processes and materials, “Immediate” really is not confined to prototype tooling.  Rather, and even more powerfully, the capability has become “Immediate Prototype Mold Cavities.”  After all, it is the steel casting prototype mold cavity, whether made in sand or investment ceramic, that is needed quickly and that can be revised quickly.

This Episode 12 includes a brief overview of the Additive and Subtractive processes directly applicable to making “Immediate Prototype Mold Cavities,” including examples of how dimensional and solidification integrity compliance can be accomplished quicker and more reliably.  There is a concluding segment explaining how “Immediate Prototyping” can demonstrate capability in producing more as-cast surfaces in final steel casting net shape.  More net shape as-cast surfaces and less machining can enable a steel casting producer to be more price competitive while retaining better margins.