MIG Casting

Basics

• Steel parts almost directly from 3D prints
• Based on 3D Printing Investment Casting

Steps:

1. 3D print a form
2. Make a cast form with Plaster of Paris (Or use a "greensand" mold/cast? )
3. MIG weld into it

Low Temperature

• For aluminum, ZA, brass - plaster of paris will work
• For steel, higher temperature investment casting slurry needs to be used. This appears to be more advanced, and slurries may not be available transparently. (Refractory Cement? I have seen this being used for small scale forges, it can be found at hardware stores.

Working Document

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Experiment

• Get flux core aluminum MIG wire (gasless) - $11 - [1]
• Make a 3D print with hole for electrode
• Make a mold via plaster of paris. See Plaster Mold Casting
• Fill with MIG welder

Comparison to Powder (Sintering or Melting Methods)

• Simpler lacking lasers or electron beams
• More sealed ie not porous

See Also

• Open Source Digital Fabrication Construction Set
• Metallurgical Techniques
• Page on OSE with info