Water Glass Casting Process: A Cost-Effective Precision Solution
In the world of investment casting (also called precision casting), manufacturers are always looking for efficient, budget-friendly ways to make high-quality steel components.
One of the most common methods is water glass casting process. It’s a reliable, cost-effective alternative to silica sol investment casting, and what’s more, it’s especially popular in foundries for making detailed steel castings with great dimensional accuracy
Sodium silicate shell processing is a type of investment casting where a refractory shell is built around a wax pattern using sodium silicate (water glass) as a binder. The process involves:
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Pattern Coating – The wax model is dipped into a sodium silicate solution.
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Sand Stuccoing – Fine ceram
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ic sand is applied to create a strong shell layer.
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Chemical Hardening – The shell is hardened using CO₂ gas or self-setting methods.
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Dewaxing & Firing – The wax is melted out, and the mold is fired to achieve strength.
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Metal Pouring – Molten steel or other alloys are poured into the cavity to form precision castings.
- Cost-Effective – Materials cost less than with silica sol investment casting.
- Faster Production – Shorter hardening times boost efficiency in foundry workflows.
- Solid Strength & Stability – Works well for medium to large steel castings.
- Broadly Applicable – Used for steel components in automotive, aerospace, and industrial settings.
Comparing with Silica Sol Investment Casting
Silica sol investment casting delivers a better surface finish, making it great for high-precision parts. But when budget and production speed matter most, sodium silicate shell processing is the go-to choice.
Lots of foundries even mix things up with a hybrid method called compound shell processing, blending both techniques to get the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
For manufacturers who want to balance quality and affordability in investment casting, water glass casting stays a top pick.
After all, whether they’re making steel castings for machinery, pumps, or valves, this method delivers reliable performance. Best of all, it doesn’t skimp on cost efficiency. You get parts that work well, without overspending—that’s why so many stick with water glass casting.
Looking for a trusted supplier of precision investment casting services? Contact us Lantian Precision Steel Casting Foundry today for high-quality steel components tailored to your needs!
