» A metal negative of the desired component is first made. This is called a die.
» Wax is injected into this die to get a low melting point positive. This is called a pattern
» A ceramic negative is built around this wax positive. This is the mould or shell
» The wax positive is melted out leaving behind a cavity in the ceramic shell. This negative is a monolithic ceramic mould with a    cavity having the exact shape and dimensions of the desired component
» Metal is cast into this cavity
» The ceramic shell is then broken away to reveal the metal component

This process uses disposable patterns and Moulds. Investment casting is a mass production technique. It is also a high precision casting method. Castings with tolerances as close as +/- 0.05mm are cast regularly.

From the concept of the investment casting process described above, it is possible to divide the entire investment casting process into different sections or divisions, as indicated below:

» Die design
» Die making
» Production of wax patterns
» Mould or Shell building
» Shell de-waxing
» Shell firing
» Metal melting and pouring
» Shell knockout, fettling and grinding
» Heat Treatment, if required
» Finishing
» Machining, if required
» Polishing, if required