Investigations on dimensional accuracy of the components prepared by hybrid investment casting

The rapid prototyping technologies (RP) are very useful when a limited number of pieces are promptly required like: in making/testing prototypes, design iterations and design optimisations. The fused deposition modelling (FDM) is one of the RP technologies that can use thermoplastic for making sacrificial patterns used in investment casting (IC) applications. Investment casting, often known as precision casting process, is used to produce parts with controlled dimensional tolerances. In the present study, dimensional accuracy of hip joints prepared with FDM assisted IC process has been optimised using a design of experiments technique. The effect of process parameters on FDM assisted IC process has been evaluated and studied using ANOVA. The results of the present study indicated that hip joint castings are acceptable as per the international tolerance grades. (C) 2015 The Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.