An Introduction to Low Temperature Casting

Metal casting is the process of liquid metal being poured into a mould that contains a negative impression of the intended shape. The metal is poured into the mould through a hollow channel called a sprue. The metal and mould are then cooled, and the metal part is extracted.

Low temperature casting, is the same process but with metals which melt at a low temperature. At uCreate, we have a FlameFast low temperature casting system which allows users to cast objects up to 32 x 75 x 150mm, using silicone moulds, in pewter. Pewter is a metal alloy, which means it’s a blend of several types of metal - usually tin, copper, and antimony. Pewters melting point is around 170–230°C. 

The low temperature casting system is a safe machine when used properly. It becomes unsafe when it is used improperly as it contains hot liquid metal. 

In order to use the low temperature casting system, users must first produce a silicone mould to cast the pewter into. This health and safety information therefore refers to both the silicone mould making and pewter casting processes. 

When mould making:

• Use the black tray provided to avoid spillages. If a large spillage does occur, immediately inform a member of staff. Note that unmixed silicone, will not cure. Any residue must be wiped up and binned. If you spill mixed rubber, it will cure and can be cleaned up more easily. 
• Wear gloves provided. Be aware of allergies to gloves, latex etc. If any silicone residue gets on your skin, wash it off immediately. The silicone rubber is non-toxic but avoid contact with skin as it is hard to clean.
• This rubber is not food-safe! Only use for low-temperature casting.

When pewter casting:

• The outside of the FlameFast will be warm to the touch, do not put your hands inside the machine. 
• Always wear heat proof gloves when the crucible is open and when loading or removing moulds from the casting area. The crucible of the low temperature casting system will be around 200°C.
• After you have casted your mould, leave the mould and cast to cool for at least 40 minutes before removing it from the machine. 

In order to use the low temperature casting system at uCreate, you need to have completed the mandatory formative manufacture training. 

• Small statuettes and figurines. 
• Jewellery and buttons.
• Medals and keyrings. 
• Metal versions of small 3D printed objects. SLA printing your object for casting will produce a higher quality final output. 

In order to use the low temperature caster, you must have completed the corresponding training. These are bookable via our events calendar. 

Once you have completed the training, you will be able to book the equipment on the uCreate booking site, SISO.