Silicon Molding
Introduction
It's time to re-engineer the traditional casting
Silicones, also known as polysiloxanes, are polymers that include any inert, synthetic compound made up of repeating units of siloxane, which is a chain of alternating silicon atoms and oxygen atoms, frequently combined with carbon and/or hydrogen. They are typically heat-resistant and rubber-like, and are used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine, cooking utensils, and thermal and electrical insulation. Some common forms include silicone oil, silicone grease, silicone rubber, silicone resin, and silicone caulk
Silicon Molding is widely used in the industry for the shape making where the mold is made up of Silicon is make using the object and then the multiple shape of various object is cast using that silicon mold. The accuracy of the object is depends up on the original master object and grade of the silicon.
How to Implement???
This Process can be used for large scale manufacturing as well as the home made DIY projects for hobbyist activity. for large scale manufacturing requires the multiple silicon mold at a time depends up on the time frame of the clients. A single mold tool almost 12-24 Hrs time to get cure while in the process of making the part, depends up on the grade of the resin you took for making the mold. There are sone fact curing resin which can be cure rapidly and gives the grate result while casting the part.
Process of implementing is very simple you just need the one contener and the 3D print which can be fit into that contener. then mix the resin as per the mention in the specification most resin has 1:1 ration depends up on the curing agent the ratio may change. then place the 3D printer part into the contener and pore the resin mixture on to it, make sure that no air should be trapped while poring the material on to the 3D printed part. Let it cure properly then remove the 3D printed part from the contener and remove the object as well. your silicon die is ready to use for casting. Put some powder before poring the casting liquid in to the mold and make sure that material will set on room temperature otherwise the mold will get deform due to the heat.
Process flow chart

Benefits

Images

Fishing tool mold made using 3D printing