Setting the Standard. Investment Powders, Waxes, Rubbers, Plasters and Equipment for Jewellery and Industrial Casting

Transcription

1 Setting the Standard Investment Powders, Waxes, Rubbers, Plasters and Equipment for Jewellery and Industrial Casting

2 SRS: Advanced products for metal casting World class and wide ranging Few companies in the world can match SRS s expertise in the use of gypsum plaster, rubber and waxes for metal casting in jewellery and industrial applications. Our products are used in a wide variety of applications from intricate jewellery pieces set with one carat of diamonds to full size bronze life sculptures and aluminium turbo wheels rotating in excess of 60,000rpm. SRS. Setting the Standard 2 Everything we do reflects our founding principle of product excellence backed up by full technical and customer support. AN INNOVATIVE COMPANY Our in-house laboratory is state-of-theart and staffed by qualified technicians. Their role is to: Improve products which exceed customer requirements Improve our knowledge of raw materials and products through scientific analysis Improve product performance to help us become the leading supplier of materials for jewellery, aluminium, bronze and glass casting WORLD-CLASS SERVICE AND SUPPORT At SRS we are driven by the desire to support our partners and customers worldwide with the highest standard of service possible, which means we: Listen to your needs and do all we can to answer them Solve problems using experienced jewellery and foundry technicians Strive to build better, longer lasting global relationships through quality of service RIGOROUS QUALITY CONTROL Our laboratory staff test every product batch to the limit, making sure it meets our exacting standards: Our ISO9001 quality system guarantees consistency from batch to batch We use only the highest quality raw materials which are all tested to our required specification We do test castings as part of the ISO9001 process We are committed to continuous improvement of the quality system Everything we do reflects our founding principle of product excellence backed up by full technical and customer support. SRS. Setting the Standard 3

3 Outstanding R&D, quality and technical support Making the difference SRS has been able to attract more and more customers by constantly providing the highest standards of quality and reliability. We are also committed to research which leads to product development and innovation. Outstanding R&D, quality and technical support 4 20% of our employees work in a fully equipped laboratory. This allows quality control testing and duplication of customer production conditions, enabling us to provide products you can rely on completely. QUALITY CONTROL SRS uses advanced scientific equipment on a routine basis to control raw materials and finished product specifications. We are unique in having on-site XRF and XRD in our laboratory. Other checks we constantly run are for particle size, thermal and setting expansion in both raw materials and the finished product. Through years of development we have acquired the ability to achieve a high level of consistency in slurry performance, set time and flow. This gives the customer more process control, more consistent moulds and better castings. RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT R&D has been an essential feature of SRS since the very beginning. For example, we were the first company to introduce stone-inplace investment powders in This product was developed using real diamonds and is the perfect demonstration of our commitment to leading edge research and development. The exacting batch to batch set time specifications and flows demanded by industrial customers are also a direct result of many years investment in R&D projects. TECHNICAL SUPPORT The strength of SRS is that we understand your casting process and have worldwide knowledge and experience to draw on. We offer a full technical support service that is second to none. For technical sales visits, we employ qualified jewellery and foundry specialists with a deep understanding of casting. Outstanding R&D, quality and technical support 5

4 Jewellery products SRS have got them covered SRS are the only company in the world who are primary manufacturers of investment powder, wax and rubber products for jewellery casting. This means we not only cover every application, we also offer the cashflow and stockholding benefits to distributors of having one source for all products. This is a truly global operation with manufacturing centres in the UK, Thailand, China and Brazil along with an international network of local distributors. Our experienced jewellery technicians are also available to aid the process. Jewellery products 6 INVESTMENT POWDERS SRS investment powders have been formulated by Dr Ian McKeer, the world s foremost scientist in this field. Raw materials are sourced worldwide and undergo intensive analysis in our labs for chemical properties and particle size. Silk Classic Eurovest Stonecast Platinó Steelcast CADcast As a final precaution, each batch is cast in silver and brass in our own hot metal lab to check the quality of the casting. The result is a product you can trust 100% to deliver high standards and reliability. Top quality powder especially suited to palladium white and 18k & 22k gold Extremely user friendly powder for all gold, silver and brass Top quality economy powder for 9k gold, silver and brass Special application powder for stone-in-place casting or wax setting One part phosphate bonded investment powder for platinum casting One part phosphate bonded investment powder for steel casting Special process for casting CAD resins (use with Procad barrier liquid) SRS Investment Powders Quality systems accredited to ISO9001 Raw materials tested with XRF, XRD and Malvern analyser Additional proprietary checks employed to ensure raw materials meet specification Each batch undergoes test casting for quality Produce fine surface finish reducing metal loss in polishing Suitable for wide variety of process conditions Easy to clean off and consistent from batch to batch INJECTION WAXES For over 25 years, the jewellery industry has relied on SRS waxes for unbeatable quality and consistency. They have been used in pioneering applications as well as being the benchmark for general purpose, high volume wax injection systems. Always at the forefront of new technology, SRS is now manufacturing a range of new waxes offering greater flexibility and strength with cleaner burnout properties. RUBBERS SRS offer a complete range of both natural and silicone rubbers, and we are renowned for our Sunshine range of silicone rubbers which we have been supplying to the jewellery industry since A state-of-the-art silicone rubber manufacturing plant has also recently been installed in response to the jewellery industry changing from natural to silicone rubber. SRS is a truly global operation with manufacturing centres in the UK, Thailand, China and Brazil... 7 Jewellery products

5 Gold, silver and brass High performance investment powders Normal Burnout Cycle 730 C SRS Investment Powders have been used by the jewellery industry worldwide for over 26 years, proving their excellence again and again in every kind of application. Our products are suitable for mixing by hand or machine. For manufacturers who are seeking a trouble-free process, combined with consistency and quality that is unsurpassed, SRS investment powders represent the ideal solution. Temperature C C 150 C/hr SRS SILK For gold casting nothing surpasses the quality of SRS Silk. This is our flagship product which is composed of the highest quality and concentration of unmineralised cristobalite. Easy to use and can withstand many different process conditions, SRS Silk gives trouble free castings with a superior surface finish and easy breakout. Ideal for high karat gold, including 18k white with Palladium. SRS CLASSIC A superb solution for all gold, silver and brass castings, SRS Classic has been the reliable choice of jewellery factories for more than fifteen years. It incorporates the highest quality unmineralised cristobalite to ensure an excellent surface finish and defect free casting time after time. Flexible in use and easy to clean off after casting, it s the totally reliable answer to a whole range of applications. SRS EUROVEST This is the investment powder for jewellery manufacturers seeking a product that combines a totally reliable performance with cost-effectiveness. Mainly designed for silver and brass castings, it is also suitable for 9k and 14k gold. SRS Eurovest still uses high quality unmineralised cristobalite and has been proven to give defect-free castings batch after batch hrs 3hrs 3.5hrs 4hrs 1hr Time in hours Gold, silver and brass 8 MIXING BY HAND MIXING INSTRUCTIONS POWDER TO WATER RATIO 100 TO 38 MIXING BY MACHINE 1 Add powder to water 1 Add powder to water 2 Mix for 3 minutes 2 Mix for 4-5 minutes under full vacuum 3 Vacuum mixture for 1 minute 3 Pour flasks 4 Pour flasks 4 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 5 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 5 6 Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and to stand on a firm surface for 2 hours Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and to stand on a firm surface for 2 hours Silk Classic Eurovest Brass SRS PRODUCT SELECTOR CHART Silver 9k Yellow 12k Yellow 14k Yellow 18k Yellow 22k Yellow 9k White 14k White 18k White Gold, silver and brass 9

6 Platinum and steel Investment powders that take the heat SRS manufacture a range of investment powders specifically created to withstand the higher temperatures involved in casting ferrous and platinum alloys. One feature, unique to the jewellery industry, is that these products are manufactured in a special air-conditioned environment to maximise consistency from batch to batch. It also ensures that the product stays fresh right through its specified shelf life. SRS HOT investment powders use a phosphate bonded system and are suitable for both steel and platinum castings. They provide ease of use, smooth finish and easier breakout after casting. All SRS HOT investment powders are mixed only with water. Please see separate data sheets for each product Platinó and Steelcast Burnout Cycle 900 C PLATINÓ SRS Platinó is a phosphate bonded investment powder for casting all platinum alloys. SRS Platinó contains all the necessary additives and is simply mixed with water. It is used like normal gold and silver investment powder i.e. with a rubber base. There are no complicated handling issues with SRS Platinó. Full mixing and burnout instructions are on the separate data sheet. STEELCAST SRS Steelcast is a phosphate bonded investment powder developed especially for casting stainless steel. SRS Steelcast contains all the necessary additives and is simply mixed with water. SRS Steelcast is used with a rubber base and therefore has no complicated handling issues. Full mixing and burnout instructions are on the separate data sheet. Platinó and Steelcast are available in 25kg bags and 25kg pails. Platinum and steel 10 Temperature C C/hr 150 C 4.5hrs 6hrs 4.5hrs Time in hours Platinum and steel 11

7 CAD resins and stone-in-place Special application investment powders CAD RESINS SRS STONECAST Over the last few years there has been an increasing trend in the use of CAD CAM systems in jewellery manufacturing. With these computerised systems it is usual to cast straight off the resin with no prior processes. This can cause problems in the casting process because of the high melting point of the resin which makes the ash difficult to remove. The SRS solution was to develop a casting process that utilises SRS Silk investment powder combined with Procad barrier release liquid. Procad prevents wax ingress into the powder and helps with removal of the CAD resin from the moulds, the casting produces a fine surface finish and consistently better results on most resins. Please note that Procad does not show any improvement on Viper resins. Procad prevents poor surface finish on CAD resin casting Procad creates a barrier around the wax pattern preventing wax ingress into the investment powder Procad helps removal of the CAD resin from the moulds leaving a clean debris free cavity Procad should be used in conjunction with the SRS burnout cycle for CAD resins Procad is available in 250ml and 1ltr containers. SRS can be relied on for highly effective solutions for stone-in-place castings because it is SRS who pioneered the inclusion of special additives into investment powder for this kind of application. SRS Stonecast is simple to use and is mixed in the normal way for standard gold and silver investments. All that needs to be adjusted is the burnout cycle temperature which must not exceed 630 C. Today, SRS Stonecast is the industry leader for wax setting investment powders. It works by ensuring that the correct de-oxidising additives are present, thereby minimising the risk of damage to diamonds or other precious stones. These include problems with burnt diamonds, accelerated set times, incomplete filling, spalling and flashing over or under stones. CAD Resin Burnout Cycle CAD resins and stone-in-place Temperature C C Casting Temperature Temperature C C Stonecast Burnout Cycle 150 C/hr 630 C 3hrs 2.5hrs 4hrs 630 C Casting Temperature CAD resins and stone-in-place Time in hours Time in hours 13

8 Rubbers and waxes 14 Rubbers and waxes An all-inclusive range INJECTION WAXES Our range of injection waxes for jewellery casting is one of the most comprehensive available and allows the manufacturer to achieve highgrade results on a wide variety of castings. Ranging from general purpose waxes with a selection of flow and hardness characteristics through to carvable waxes and pouring waxes. It means everything from jewellery with fine detail through to the slush casting of large sculptures can be achieved. In addition to our well established European waxes we also now offer our 68 range manufactured by SRS in the UK. This is a result of a worldwide raw material sourcing programme combined with expert knowledge of polymer technology. This 68 range of waxes provides: Easy flow will fill the most difficult of patterns A built in release agent A very low level of ash for clean burn out A glass like surface finish SRS 863 Pink SRS 864 Red SRS 865 Green SRS 866 Blue 1868 Screamin Green 1968 Shocking Pink 2068 Midnight Blue Available in 1kg and 25kg packs. SRS EUROPEAN WAXES General purpose injection wax with higher flow characteristics. Excellent for wax setting Harder wax with lower shrinkage for flatter surfaces. This wax can be carved in fine detail General purpose wax. Good strength with standard flow properties General Purpose wax. Very good flexibility. Very good memory and excellent for wax setting SRS 68 WAXES General purpose wax for most jewellery pieces. It has good flow properties and gives excellent surface finish Has high flow properties for more intricate or filigree pieces. It gives excellent surface finish A harder wax with a lower shrinkage for flat pieces SRS can also supply world renowned Freeman waxes and carving blocks. RUBBER As always our aim is to provide the best choice of products for the jewellery manufacturer, which is why we offer both natural and silicone rubber. Both products are manufactured to the highest quality standards and give exceptional results. NATURAL RUBBER Made from only the best raw materials and manufactured in a purpose-built facility, SRS Natural Rubber has an 18% higher tear strength to enable longer mould life on high production runs. In addition SRS Natural Rubber is 5% lighter so less rubber is required to fill the moulds. What s more, our manufacturing process ensures exceptionally consistent shrinkage, giving consistent wax weights from mould to mould and batch to batch for years to come. Our Natural Rubber is available in SRS Firm grade (40-41 Shore hardness) or SRS Flex Grade (34-35 Shore hardness). Some Holland cloth is included in every box....our aim is to provide the best choice of products for the jewellery manufacturer... SUNSHINE SILICONE RUBBER Our range of Sunshine silicone rubbers are comparable in price to natural rubber yet give massively increased performance. Our silicones are designed for a superior shiny surface finish that means less metal loss plus faster cleaning and polishing. SRS silicones are also quicker and easier to pack and will not tarnish the silver master patterns, so no plating is required. They vulcanise quicker and more uniformly than other leading brand silicones and have a low thermal conductivity for faster wax cooling. With better mould filling properties, low shrinkage (only % for standard silicone and % for CAD silicone), less release spray required and no talc needed, the SRS Sunshine range is in a class of its own. Rubbers and waxes 15

9 Industrial products For control and consistency The SRS quality system is second to none, providing unbeatable reliability and performance. As experts in gypsum plaster for metal casting, SRS has developed a range of products for casting non-ferrous parts for the aerospace and automotive industries. Alongside these are specialised products for casting applications such as shoe moulds, tyre moulds and bronze or glass sculptures. Our unique specification procedures for raw materials mean we are able to precisely control the behaviour of a gypsum plaster slurry, making it completely consistent from batch to batch. Together with tight control over set times, this gives foundries complete control over their in house process. The SRS quality system is second to none, providing unbeatable reliability and performance. Industrial products Precise specifications for consistency and performance Plaster slurries controllable to agreed specifications Set times adjustable to agreed specifications Highly robust quality control systems Exceptional service and customer support Technology engineers employed from the foundry industry Programme of continual improvement and development Industrial A Sculpture Artcast Stucco Glass Foundry Plaster INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS Lost wax casting of precision non-ferrous parts Lost wax casting of medium to large bronze artistic pieces Lost wax casting of small to medium bronze artistic pieces Lost wax casting of bronze artistic pieces using a plaster shell Lost wax casting of glass pieces using the Pate de Verre process Casting of aluminium using a reclaimable pattern Industrial products Cobra Casting of aluminium Tyre Moulds 16 Shucast Casting of aluminium Shoe Moulds 17

10 Block mould investments Performance and precision SRS have developed a range of products for block mould lost wax casting. With the block mould process there is no need for preformed ceramic cores, even for the most complex internal configurations. Intricate aluminium castings with thin and delicate features are much more easily and reliably achieved. Our block mould plasters are manufactured to exacting specifications so that each batch is consistent and meets the precise needs of the customer. And for ultimate assurance, each delivery comes with a certificate of conformity. GLASS INDUSTRIAL A ARTCAST A plaster based investment which has been specially developed for the production of glass sculptures by the Pate de Verre lost wax process. This product has been designed specifically for the block mould process used to cast all non-ferrous metals. Employed for many years by leading foundries on prestigious aerospace and defence projects, Industrial A will accurately produce flawless castings time after time. A plaster based investment powder for brass or bronze castings using the lost wax process. Ideal for small to medium sized artistic pieces. See separate product data sheets for full details on these products. Block mould investments SCULPTURE A plaster based investment powder that has been developed for the manufacture of large castings in bronze or brass by the lost wax process. It is designed for especially sizeable castings with up to 1000kg of investment powder per mould. Employed for many years by leading foundries on prestigious aerospace and defence projects... Block mould investments 18 19

11 Reclaimable Pattern Investments A process made perfect by SRS SRS are world leaders in reclaimable pattern investments having developed proprietary QC processes for controlling viscosity, flow, gel and set time. Our range of plaster mould products specifically designed for casting using a reclaimable pattern in wood or silicone rubber contain only the purest, closely graded raw materials. SRS plaster will perform in a consistent and reliable fashion within your process. Reclaimable pattern investments 20 Suitable for high volume or short run production, the reclaimable pattern process is an alternative to investmentcasting, sand-casting and prototype die-casting. Its most common use is in casting turbo compressor wheels. SRS offer advanced products that have proved themselves time and again in the laboratory and the foundry. FOUNDRY PLASTER For casting aluminium using a reclaimable pattern in silicone rubber. Foundry Plaster has been used for many years by leading European foundries, especially for casting turbo compressor wheels. COBRA A specialist plaster designed for the casting of aluminium moulds in tyre manufacturing. Like other foundry products, can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements. SHUCAST A plaster that has been specially formulated for the shoe industry. It is used for the casting of aluminium mould plates. See separate product data sheets for full details on these products. Our range of plaster mould products... contain only the purest, closely graded raw materials. Reclaimable pattern investments 21

12 SRS. Setting the Standard Our commitment to casting SRS. Setting the Standard To continually develop casting solutions that exceed customer expectations To invest in scientific resources and the people to create innovative products To listen to our customers and understand their ever-changing requirements To solve problems through the know-how of those with industry experience To provide unrivalled quality control and customer support To build long lasting global relationships with our customers and distributors To become the leading company in our field through the quality of products 22

13 223m 2 of forest has been preserved and tonnes of carbon saved through printing this brochure on carbon balanced material. SRS (A division of Goodwin Refractory Services Ltd) Spencroft Rd, Newcastle-under-Lyme, England ST5 9JE T: +44 (0) F: +44 (0) E: sales@srs-ltd.co.uk

14 SRS SOLUTIONS Natural Vulcanising Rubbers SRS can now supply Natural Vulcanising Rubber. SRS are using tried and tested rubber technology which has been used successfully by jewellers for over 20 years. Superior consistent quality Tried and tested over many years Higher tear strength Excellent surface finish on Flex Grade SRS Natural Rubber has an extremely high tear strength giving longer mould life on high production runs. In addition our manufacturing process gives a particularly consistent shrinkage. This gives consistent wax weights from mould to mould and batch to batch for years and years. SRS Natural Rubber is available in Firm (blue plastic backing) and Flex (yellow plastic backing) Grades. SRS Firm grade is Shore hardness and SRS Flex Grade is Shore hardness. Some Holland cloth is included in every box. SRS natural rubber is available in strips and in sheet form both packed in 25lb (11.36kg) boxes. Each strip is 73mm x 455mm x 3mm, each sheet is 457mm x 457mm x 3mm. For technical support or to find your nearest supplier visit: High quality natural rubber from purpose built production facility. Same hardness and shrinkage as other rubbers no need to change master patterns 18% increased tear strength moulds last longer 5% lighter density use less rubber PROPERTIES FIRM FLEX Tear strength ASTM die B (ppli) 450 ppli 450 ppli Specific gravity 1.35 gm/cm³ 1.23 gm/cm³ Hardness Shore A scale 40 40º - 41º 34º - 35º Tensile strength (psi) 1830 psi 1750 psi Elongation 700% 750% Average shrink 1.7% 2.3% Cure temp degrees 307ºF/153ºC 307ºF/153ºC Cure time minutes per ¼ thickness 7 minutes 7 minutes Uncured shelf life in years 10 + years 10+ years Cured shelf life Permanent Permanent

15 SRS SOLUTIONS Sunshine Silicone Rubbers SRS introduce a range of Sunshine Silicone Rubbers with different qualities and for different applications. Sunshine Silicone Rubber from SRS offers the following advantages: SRS silicones give a far superior SHINY surface finish giving you less metal loss and faster cleaning/ polishing processes SRS silicones are considerably quicker and easier to pack than natural rubber. Simply push the putty around master patterns SRS Sunshine does not tarnish the sliver master patterns - no plating is required on silver master patterns with SRS silicones SRS silicones vulcanize quicker and more uniformly than other leading brand silicones SRS silicones have low thermal conductivity so waxes cool more quickly than natural rubber SRS silicones have low shrinkage only % for standard silicone and % for low shrinkage CAD silicone Package size is 25kg per box, approximately 1kg per sheet. Standard Silicone Rubbers: TYPE SRS 38 Yellow - Natural Yellow SRS 45/E Blue - Sky Blue SRS 44 Pink - Fuchsia Pink SRS 32 INSERT - orange DESCRIPTION Soft and flexible rubber especially good for large undercuts. Features high elasticity and flexibility with exceptional tensile strength resulting in excellent surface finish Economy priced silicone rubber. Good all round rubber with Shore hardness 45 - however lacks the strength of the Fuchsia Pink. This can be spiral cut and minimum vents are required Top quality rubber with excellent mechanical properties. Similar in hardness to the sky blue economy silicone but with longer life and more tear strength. Excellent for use where a high pressure is required. Excellent surface finish Extremely soft and pliable rubber for inserts into intricate areas which need more flexibility. SRS 32 can be used in combination with the economy rubbers to achieve high performance moulds at lower prices C - 15 minutes per layer Low shrinkage Rubbers for CAD Resins: TYPE SRS 40 CAD LT - Chestnut Brown SRS 32 CAD LT INSERT - Mustard Green DESCRIPTION Low temperature for CAD resin patterns. CAD rubber has extremely low shrinkage of only 0.3% to actually reproduce resin master patterns Low temperature low shrinkage insert silicone for CAD resin patterns. SRS 32 CAD LT has extremely low shrinkage of only 0.3% to faithfully reproduce resin master patterns C - 30 minutes per layer SHORE HARDNESS SHORE HARDNESS MINIMUM TENSILE STRENGTH TENSILE STRENGTH

16 SRS SOLUTIONS SRS Platinó & Steelcast Investment Powder SRS continue to strive for excellence and innovation in their products for the jewellery manufacturing industry worldwide. Through extensive research and development efforts SRS ensure that they remain at the forefront of technology giving improved product performance for manufacturers. This new HOT investment powder provides a simple and effective means of producing high quality castings in platinum and steel. Platinó offers the following benefits to the jewellery caster: Is a one part investment powder Is easy to use no need to add liquid acid or binders just add water Will give excellent surface finish and reproduce fine detail Uses quality controlled raw materials from our own source graded especially for lost wax casting Is very refractory giving a good degree of flexibility at very high temperatures in excess of 2000 C Steelcast offers the following benefits to the jewellery caster: Is easy to use no acids or special liquids just add water and mix Can be used up to flask temperature of 1000 C and metal temperature of 1700 C Gives excellent surface finish and fine detail in HOT operating conditions Uses quality controlled raw materials from our own source graded especially for lost wax casting Is extremely refractory and is not degraded by the high metal temperatures Is easy to clean off after casting Reduces time spent on finishing after casting Platinó and Steelcast are available in 25kg bags and 25kg pails. Temperature C MIXING BY HAND MIXING INSTRUCTIONS POWDER TO WATER RATIO 100 TO 35 MIXING BY MACHINE 1 Add powder to water 1 Add powder to water 2 Mix for 3 minutes 2 Mix for 4-5 minutes under full vacuum 3 Vacuum mixture for 1 minute 3 Pour flasks 4 Pour flasks 4 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 5 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours Platinó and Steelcast Burnout Cycle 150 C 4.5hrs 125 C/hr 6hrs Time in hours 900 C 4.5hrs Supplied in standard 25kg re-sealable container with other sizes available on request. The packs need to be kept dry and used in rotation as contact with moisture and extensive storage will cause the investment powder to deteriorate over time. Caution: Platinó/Steelcast under no circumstances should be used with or be allowed to be contaminated by other investment powders. For consistent results cleanliness is essential. Platinó/Steelcast contains silica and is harmful through inhalation. Do not breathe the dust, there is a danger of cumulative effects. For further information please refer to the relevant Material Safety Data Sheet.

17 SRS SOLUTIONS Procad Resin Barrier Liquid Procad has been developed to improve the surface of parts cast directly from resins. Procad places a barrier round the resin and stops any reaction with the investment powder. Instructions for use Originally developed for casting resins in platinum, it has been found that Procad works on most resins and gives an improved surface finish. Resins can either be dipped individually or as a complete tree depending on the volume being cast. Once the resin is coated try to avoid touching it as this may damage the surface. 1. Make sure that the resin is clean and dry before dipping 2. Place the resin into a furnace at around 80 C for 30 minutes. This leaches out any impurities that may be on the resin as a result of the build and initial cleaning process 3. Remove the resin from the furnace, ensure it is clean if not use a solvent such as white spirit to thoroughly clean the resin 4. After cleaning put the resin back into the furnace for another 30 minutes to dry it out 5. Dip the clean dry resin into the Procad Release Agent and let it air dry 6. Repeat the dipping up to 10 times letting the resin dry between dips 7. Revolve the piece between dips so that the Procad liquid gives a uniform coating 8. Once the dipping process is complete the tree can be invested in the normal way Burnout cycle Resins can be cast in the normal way with the cycle that you normally use. You might also try a fast burnout which we have found to work well with SRS SILK Investment Powder. Fast burnout Pre-heat the furnace to 600 C to 650 C. Put the flask into the furnace at this high temperature. Raise the furnace temperature to 730 C at full power and hold at 730 C for at least 2 hours. Bring down to casting temp. Only a small number of flasks can be burnt out like this (1 or 2 flasks is best). Try to use small flasks with perforations so that the investment dries quicker, this will help the temperature inside the flask rise quicker. Procad is available in 250ml and 1ltr containers. Temperature C CAD Resin Burnout Cycle 730 C Time in hours Casting Temperature PLEASE NOTE THAT PROCAD IS ALCOHOL BASED AND WILL EVAPORATE - PLEASE KEEP CONTAINER TIGHTLY CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.

18 SRS SOLUTIONS Jewellery Investment Powders SRS Sources the highest quality raw material and additives, to ensure premium performing consistent products are produced. Benefits: High purity raw materials graded and selected especially for jewellery lost wax casting Full range of products for all metals, from Brass to 24k Gold Easy and flexible to use, giving perfect castings every time Super smooth surface finish and faithful reproduction of wax surface therefore less polishing required Easy to break out after casting Temperature C C Normal Burnout Cycle 150 C/hr 730 C hrs 0 3hrs 3.5hrs 4hrs 1hr Time in hours SRS SILK: Silk is the premium investment powder suitable for all metals especially palladium white and 18k & 22k Gold. Silk is very flexible to use and is forgiving to process variations. SRS CLASSIC: Classic is designed for all type of metals, ranging from Brass, Silver & all types of Gold. SRS EUROVEST: Eurovest is the top quality economical powder for Brass, Silver & Gold up to 14k. MIXING INSTRUCTIONS POWDER TO WATER RATIO 100 TO 38 MIXING BY HAND MIXING BY MACHINE 1 Add powder to water 1 Add powder to water 2 Mix for 3 minutes 2 3 Vacuum mixture for 1 minute 3 Pour flasks Mix for 4-5 minutes under full vacuum 4 Pour flasks 4 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 5 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 6 Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours 5 Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours Available in 22.7kg polypropylene sacks and 45.4kg round drums.

19 SRS SOLUTIONS SRS Stonecast Investment Powder SRS Ltd pioneered the use of pre-blended investments for stone-in-place casting. Stonecast was developed by SRS technicians using real diamonds to optimise the protection of the stones. Stonecast: Is a pre-blended investment powder for stone casting or wax setting with diamonds no need to make any other additions Was developed using real diamonds to determine the optimum formulation Can also be used for synthetic stones Provides a heat shield for diamonds up to a mould temperature of 630 C Gives a fluid slurry and flash set to improve strength of moulds Note: Do not Steam De-wax Do not burnout above 630ºC Do not quench, only knock out when cold Available in 22.7kg polypropylene sacks or 45.4kg round drums. Temperature C Stonecast Burnout Cycle 230 C 150 C/hr 3hrs 2.5hrs 4hrs 630 C 630 C Casting Temperature Time in hours MIXING INSTRUCTIONS POWDER TO WATER RATIO 100 TO 38 MIXING BY HAND MIXING BY MACHINE 1 Add powder to water 1 Add powder to water 2 Mix for 3 minutes 2 3 Vacuum mixture for 1 minute 3 Pour flasks Mix for 4-5 minutes under full vacuum 4 Pour flasks 4 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 5 Vacuum flasks for 2 minutes 6 Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours 5 Remove flasks immediately from vacuum and stand on a firm surface for 2 hours

20 SRS SOLUTIONS Sculpture Sculpture is a gypsum plaster bonded investment powder designed specifically for the lost wax casting of large brass and bronze pieces. Sculpture has been designed to be used for large castings with up to 1000kgs of investment powder per mould - it contains coarse particles and is mixed at a powder water ratio of 36%. Highest purity raw materials used Particle sizing optimised to suit the requirements of the product Mixes easily to a fluid consistency allowing complex cores to be produced - eliminating the need for separate cores Formulated to give high strength to withstand the casting temperature and forces of bronze castings Ease of removal from casting Excellent surface finish and detail definition Consistent batch to batch set times, strengths, expansions Slurry characteristics can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements Sculpture is available in 25kg bags. Mixing Instructions As per Artcast (see reverse) Technical Information - Sculpture Powder/Water Ratio 36% Work 22ºC minutes Initial Set Time minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.45% Thermal 750ºC 0.75% Sculpture Burnout Cycle 730 C Temperature C C/hr Dwell times dependent on number and size of flasks in the oven 2hrs 6hrs 4hrs 11hrs 2hrs 320 C Casting Temperature Time in hours 200 C/hr

21 SRS SOLUTIONS Artcast Artcast is a gypsum bonded investment powder and has been designed specifically for the lost wax casting of small to medium sized brass and bronze pieces of up to 60kgs. Artcast contains fine particles and is mixed at powder water ratio of 38%. Highest purity raw materials used Particle sizing optimised to suit the requirements of the product Specially formulated for artistic casting in brass and bronze Excellent surface finish Mixes easily to a fluid consistency allowing complex cores to be produced Ease of removal from casting Consistent batch to batch set times, strengths, expansions etc Slurry characteristics can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements Artcast is available in 22.7kg bags. Artcast Burnout Cycle As per Sculpture (see reverse) Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 4 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 1 Total time taken 6 Mix without vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix 2 Vacuum slurry 1 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 2 Total time taken 6 Technical Information - Artcast Powder / Water Ratio 38% Work 22ºC 8-9 minutes Initial Set Time minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.45% Thermal 750ºC 0.75%

22 SRS SOLUTIONS Industrial A Block Mould Investment Powder Industrial A is a gypsum plaster bonded investment powder and has been formulated specifically for the lost wax block mould process for casting aluminium and other non-ferrous metals. The block mould process used with industrial A is not the same as the ceramic shell process. The different processes are used depending on the requirements of the cast part. Most lost wax foundries casting aluminium use the ceramic shell process. The wax assembly is repeatedly dipped in a ceramic slurry until a shell is built up around the waxes depending on the part, this can take many hours. Once complete the shell assembly is then de-waxed in an autoclave and cast. The Ceramic shell process is more expensive to set up but gives a more economical mould. A shell mould can also be used for casting steel because it will withstand a much higher temperature up to 1700 C. Industrial A is a block mould material and has the following advantages over shell With Industrial A it is easier to cast intricate thin walled castings which are impossible to cast by other methods because there is no mould dilation There is no need for any ceramic cores because plaster forms its own core during the investing process Industrial A promotes slow cooling, resulting in uniformity of structure and mechanical properties Industrial A gives a better surface finish than shell Industrial A gives close dimensional accuracy and tighter tolerances It is easier to clean off than ceramic shell, particularly with delicate parts Industrial A is used in the block mould process where the wax assembly is set up in a steel box and then invested to create a block mould. Industrial A can only be used for casting non ferrous metals because the gypsum plaster mould cannot be raised over 750 C. The block mould process is used mainly when the shell process cannot be used i.e. for very thin or intricate parts which cannot be shelled or for parts where the metal properties are improved by the slow uniform cooling. Block moulds are softer than shell moulds and so fragile parts are not damaged during de-moulding. Industrial A contains coarser particles than jewellery investment and can be used for moulds as large as 500kgs. Industrial A is used for a wide variety of sectors including aerospace, defence, telecommunication and satellite applications. Industrial A is particularly effective for wave guides with thin walls and close dimensional tolerances. Industrial A is also used for computer generated models made from a wide variety of rapid prototyping technologies.

23 Used for many years by leading foundries on prestigious aerospace and defence projects. Industrial A will accurately produce flawless castings time after time. Highest purity raw materials used to give superior results Particle sizing optimised to suit the requirements of the product Mixes easily to a fluid consistency allowing complex cores to be produced Consistent batch to batch set times, strengths, expansions Slurry characteristics can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements Certificate of conformity supplied with every batch Burnout cycle The burnout cycle for Industrial A will vary depending in the size of the mould. The larger the mould - the longer the burnout cycle. The burnout cycle below is for a mould weighing about 100kgs. Industrial A is available in 25kg bags or big bags up to 1,000kg. Industrial A Typical Burnout Cycle 730 C Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 4 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 1 Total time taken 6 Mix then vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix 2 Vacuum slurry 1 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 2 Total time taken 6 Temperature C hrs 200 C 150 C/hr Dwell times dependent on number and size of flasks in the oven 7hrs 4hrs 10.5hrs 200 C/hr 320 C Casting Temperature hrs Technical Information - INDUSTRIAL A Powder/Water Ratio 28% Work 22ºC Initial Set Time Setting 90 minutes 6 minutes 8 minutes 0.68N/mm² Setting 2 Hours 0.72% Thermal 750ºC 0.50% Volume yield per kg of powder 510ml Time in hours

24 SRS SOLUTIONS Glass Investment powder for glass casting Glass is a gypsum bonded investment powder and has been specially developed for the production of glass pieces by the Pate de Verre lost wax casting process. SRS Glass exhibits superior strength giving moulds that are resistant to cracking whilst reproducing fine details. The Pate de Verre lost wax process is exactly the same as the lost wax process for metal casting except that glass is cast into the mould rather than metal. After steam dewaxing and before burnout the moulds are filled with crushed glass. As the moulds pass through the burnout cycle the glass melts and fills the mould cavity. Great care needs to be taken with the cooling cycle so that the glass does not crack as it cools. Burnout cycle Burnout cycles will depend on the size of the mould. The total cycle time can take up to 15 days for very big moulds (250kgs). Glass Burnout Cycle C 800 Temperature C C/hr Dwell times dependent on number and size of moulds in the oven 10 C/hr Time in hours

25 Designed to be used without a casting flask Designed to be used up to 860 C for long periods allowing the glass to flow into the piece or cavity Thermal expansion and contraction optimised for Pate de Verre process Mixes easily to a fluid consistency to avoid air entrapment in the mould High strength during firing Easily removed to avoid damage to the piece Slurry characteristics can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements Glass is available in 25kg bags or big bags up to a 1,000kg. Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 4 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 2 Total time taken 7 Mix without vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix 4 Vacuum slurry 1 Pour into flasks 1 Vacuum flasks 2 Total time taken 8 Technical Information - Glass Powder/Water Ratio 32% Work 22ºC 10 minutes Initial Set Time minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.55% Thermal 750ºC 0.38%

26 SRS SOLUTIONS Foundry Plaster Foundry plaster is a gypsum bonded investment formulated for casting aluminium by the Rubber Plaster Mould (RPM) process using a reclaimable pattern of silicone rubber. The reclaimable pattern is placed in a box to allow it to be surrounded with plaster slurry. With one piece moulds (e.g. for turbo wheels) the silicone pattern is simply extracted. With more complex pieces the final complete mould is made up of multiple parts. For a more detailed explanation of the RPM process please visit our website in the Foundry section SRS Foundry plaster has been used for many years by leading foundries specialising in turbocharger compressor wheels and rapid prototyping processes. HOW, WHEN AND WHY TO USE IT To produce precision and premium quality aluminium and zinc castings For aesthetic applications where appearance is critical Prototyping - to assist engineering in debugging design before committing to hard tooling For low volume applications where quantities do not justify die cast tooling For high volume applications of complex or unusual shapes For castings with thin walls or where weight is critical To simulate die castings for prototype and pilot production Tooling is low cost and allows ease of modification To reduce time to market on new products and evaluate market potential To reduce time for machining and secondary operations

27 Advantages over other mould materials High permeability solid mould plaster Cools slowly following casting promoting uniformity of structure with good mechanical properties Produces an excellent surface finish with no mould breakdown reducing post cast finishing High definition and close dimensional accuracy Ideal for thin walled castings Ease of removal from casting Ideal for prototyping as well as high volume production Can be used as a single part or multiple part mould Consistent batch to batch set times, strengths, expansions Slurry characteristics can be adjusted to suit individual customer requirements Foundry plaster is available in 25kg bags or big bags up to 1,500kg. Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 1 Pour over patterns 1 Total time taken 2 Remove patterns after 20 minutes Technical Information - Foundry Plaster Powder/Water Ratio 123% Work 22ºC 1 minute Initial Set Time 3 minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.025% Thermal 200ºC 0.17% Foundry Plaster Burnout Cycle 250 C Temperature C C/hr 2hrs Dwell times dependent on number and size of moulds in the oven 12hrs 2hrs 150 C Casting Temperature Time in hours

28 SRS SOLUTIONS Cobra Cobra is a gypsum bonded investment formulated for the casting of Aluminium tyre moulds using silicone rubber patterns. Temperature C Cobra has been developed in response to customer requirements for excellent surface detail, and accurate dimensional reproduction. Particle sizing optimised to suit the requirements of the product Mixes easily to a fluid consistency to avoid air entrapment in the mould Designed to be used without a casting flask Excellent surface finish with high definition and close dimensional accuracy No mould breakdown reducing post cast finishing Ease of removal from casting Cobra is available in 25kg bags. 350 Cobra Burnout Cycle Time in hours 300 C 75 C/hr 270 C Casting Temperature Dwell times dependent on number and size of moulds in the oven 2hrs 2hrs 2hrs 5hrs 1hr Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 3 Pour over patterns 1 Vacuum 2 Total time taken 6 Remove patterns after 30 minutes Mix without vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix 2 Vacuum slurry 1 Pour over patterns 1 Vacuum moulds 2 Total time taken 6 Remove patterns after 30 minutes Technical Information - Cobra Powder/Water Ratio 45% Work 22ºC 10 minutes Initial Set Time 13 minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.38% Thermal 300ºC 0.10%

29 SRS SOLUTIONS Shucast Shucast is a gypsum bonded investment formulated for the casting of Aluminium shoe mould plates using silicone rubber patterns Temperature C Highest purity raw materials used Particle sizing optimised to suit the requirements of the product Mixes easily to a fluid consistency to avoid air entrapment in the mould Designed to be used without a casting flask Excellent surface finish with high definition and close dimensional accuracy No mould breakdown reducing post cast finishing Ease of removal from casting Shucast is available in 25kg bags C/hr 1 3hrs Shucast Burnout Cycle C Dwell times dependent on number and size of moulds in the oven 11hrs Time in hours C/hr 150 C Casting Temperature Mixing Instructions Mixing under vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix under vacuum 4 Pour over patterns 1 Vacuum 1 Total time taken 6 Remove patterns after 30 minutes Mix without vacuum Time (mins) Weigh out water and powder 0 Add powder to water 0 Mix 2 Vacuum slurry 1 Pour over patterns 1 Vacuum moulds 2 Total time taken 6 Remove patterns after 30 minutes Technical Information - Shucast Powder/Water Ratio 40% Work 22ºC minutes Initial Set Time 15 minutes Setting 2 Hours 0.75% Thermal 280ºC 0.30%