Room-temperature vulcanization (RTV) molding, also known as resin casting, RTV tooling, or silicone molding, with urethane polymers is a quick and cost-effective option for prototype molding, pre-production testing, or final production. A range of urethane materials is available for matching colors and achieving flexible or rigid parts.
At Empire Group, we have perfected resin mold and casting techniques to create parts that are small or large, complex or simple. Learn more about our RTV urethane casting services for prototyping and low- to medium-volume production.
Quality RTV Molding & Urethane Casting Services from Empire Group
RTV molding begins by creating a 3D model of the part, which is used to create a master pattern. This pattern is used to create a silicone rubber mold. The mold is filled with a urethane polymer mixture, then any voids are filled. The casting is allowed to set and is then carefully removed. The mold can be used multiple times, and each casting will have all of the intricate details and features of the master pattern part.
Empire Group’s RTV molding process produces exceptional quality results and can be tailored to your specific requirements. The molding and casting process is well-suited to intricate part features and tight tolerances. Urethane polymers are available in a range of mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties; degrees of flexibility or rigidity; and a large selection of colors.
The Benefits of RTV Molding & Urethane Casting
There are several reasons to choose RTV molding for your next prototyping project. Here are some of the benefits of cast urethane parts:
- Cost-Effective. Silicone molds are less expensive than hard plastic tooling used with injection molding processes. This makes it possible to test, refine, and re-test your designs at a fraction of the cost.
- Speed to Production. Urethane casting is fast. The molds are easy to produce, and the polyurethane cures rapidly, allowing you to move from prototype to production in less time.
- Versatility and Design Freedom. Urethane casts can closely replicate the properties of the final product, whether flexible, rigid, or somewhere in between. Color matching is simple—just add dye to clear polyurethane to achieve your desired hue.
- Quality and Performance. RTV molding and urethane casting deliver production-quality parts with less time and expense. The vacuuming process captures intricate details from the master pattern, ensuring they are reflected in the prototype.
- Design Iteration Flexibility. As you refine your prototype, you can easily adjust your design until the final product is perfected.
Material Selection for RTV Molding/Urethane Casting
We offer an extensive range of urethane casting materials to meet your requirements. Options include:
- High-performance rigid and flexible urethanes
- Clear urethanes
- Medical-grade silicones
- Food and drug-grade epoxies
- White metal
- Expandable foam casting
Common Applications
In addition to its use for prototyping, urethane casting can also be used to create functional, production-quality parts in low to medium volumes. This process can be used to make anything from scaled, look-like models to working, production-quality parts, all at a lower cost and faster speed than other materials and processes.
Some common applications for cast urethane parts include:
- Prototyping
- Low-volume production runs
- Functional end-use parts
- Medical devices
- Consumer goods
- And more
Project Gallery – Example Molded Parts
Here are some projects that illustrate the versatility of the RTV molding process.
Unleash the Potential of RTV Molding & Casting: Partner with Empire Group Today
If you are looking for a cost-effective and quick solution for prototyping or lower-volume production, RTV molding and urethane prototype casting from Empire Group is the ideal option. We're here to develop the best solution for your prototyping needs. Contact us today or request a quote to get started.