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The Lost Wax
Casting Process
The lost wax casting method involves making a wax model,
investing it in a mold, and then melting the wax out of the mold to
form a cavity into which a glass replica can be cast.
Wax models can be made in several ways, ranging from hand
modeling with beeswax or a similar easily molded wax to casting from
a latex or other master mold. Wax can even be poured into a pan to
form sheets which can then be cut and formed.
Regardless of the method used, the creation of the wax model
is the first step to using the lost wax process. Once this model has
been made, it should be encased in the investment material (usually
a plaster/silica mixture).
Once the investment dries, the wax should be removed from the
mold. There are several ways to do this, ranging from heating
the mold in a kiln to steaming the wax out of the mold.
Whichever method is used, it's critical not to overheat the wax.
Since wax is flammable, it can catch fire if it is allowed to get
too hot.
After the wax has been melted out, the mold is ready to be
cured, filled with glass, and fired. As the glass pieces melt
in the mold, they will fill the spaces once occupied by the wax, a
process that gives this technique its name.
With careful reclaiming, the wax can be used again in a later
project.
Coming soon -- tips on choosing the best wax
for lost wax casting, on the best way to remove wax from the mold,
and more about the lost wax casting process.
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Copyright 2006 Brad Walker.
All rights reserved.
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