Introduction
to Shell
ICI Industry Certification Program
1
Investment Casting Process
Wax Finishing
You are
here
Shell
Casting
ICI Industry Certification Program 2
Sprue
Slurry
Stucco
Dry and
repeat
ICI Industry Certification Program 3
Shell - Goal
• Produce a disposable refractory mold that
will hold liquid metal during pouring and
solidification
– Must replicate the appearance of pattern in
every detail
– Control casting dimensions
– Cannot leak
ICI Industry Certification Program 4
Basic Definitions
• Sprue – Also known as a pattern
assembly
• Flour – Also known as powder; A
refractory material finer than sand
• Stucco – Also known as sand; A granular
refractory that is applied to a pattern
after it is dipped in the slurry
ICI Industry Certification Program 5
Basic Definitions
• Binder – A mixture of a solvent (water or
alcohol) and a solid (silica). When properly
gelled this material holds the mold together at
high temperature
• Slurry – A mixture of a liquid binder and a fine
refractory flour
• Prime coat – Also called face coat or precoat;
Slurry applied directly to the wax pattern
ICI Industry Certification Program 6
End of Session
ICI Industry Certification Program
7