Manufacturing of High Production Steel Shell Mold Patterns
Hitech was contracted by an Industry leader of shell molded iron compressor components, who required high speed milling of patterns to reduce draft required in casting process. The utilization of Hitech high speed milling and machining software was critical factor in the success of this project.
Our engineers developed the process and custom tooling, complete with 2D and 3D renderings and simulations. We were able to complete the machining of the tooling’s deep pockets while holding very tight tolerances of ±0.0005” with our advanced vertical milling machinery. The tooling was constructed with 4140 steel, reaching final dimensions of 45”x30”x26”.
The completed pattern featured a micro machined finish of 3.2 micron, and a 1 micron hand polished finish, this rendered secondary finishing unnecessary. Comprehensive dimensional testing and functionality testing were carried out to ensure customer specifications for quality and integrity were met. The shell mold pattern was completed within a 3 week lead time, delivered to the customer in Eastern Ohio. For more details about this draft reducing custom shell mold pattern fabrication, or our precision manufacturing solutions please see the table below or contact us directly.


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Manufacturing of Steel Shell Mold Patterns Project Highlights
- Product Description
- High speed milling of shell mold patterns
- Capabilities Applied/Processes
-
- Primary:
Engineering/Development
Machining
Casting - Secondary:
No secondary finish required because high speed milling technology utilized.
- Primary:
- Equipment Used to Manufacture Part
- Vertical milling machine
- Overall Part Dimensions
- 45” x 30” x 26”
- Tightest Tolerances
- +/- 0.0005”
- Material Used
- 440 Steel
- Material Finish
- 3.2 micron machined to 1 micron hand polish
- In process testing/inspection performed
- Dimensional Testing, Functionality Testing
- Industry for Use
- Shell mold foundry
- Volume
- N/A Job Shop 1 time tooling
- Delivery/Turnaround Time
- 3 weeks
- Delivery Location
- Eastern Ohio
- Standards Met
- Customer Specifications, 2D/3D CAD Drawing
- Product Name
- Shell Mold Pattern