Ceramic molding is a precision casting process that uses a ceramic material to create the mold. The ceramic mold can withstand very high temperatures, allowing it to produce castings with excellent surface finish, fine detail, and tight dimensional accuracy.

It is commonly used for complex and high-temperature alloy components, especially in aerospace and industrial applications.

**Ceramic Molding-Everything you need to know**

Ceramic Moulding (Ceramic Mould Casting):

Ceramic moulding is a precision casting process in which the mould is made from a ceramic slurry consisting of fine refractory materials. The mould can withstand very high temperatures, making it suitable for casting high-melting-point metals.

👉 It combines the accuracy of investment casting with the strength of ceramic materials.

Materials Used in Ceramic Moulding

Refractory powders:
- Silica
- Zircon
- Alumina
Binders:
- Ethyl silicate
- Phosphate binders
Additives:
- Plasticizers
- Gelling agents

Main Components of a Ceramic Mould

Pattern (metal, plastic, or wax)
Ceramic slurry
Mould cavity
Gating system
Backing ceramic
Firing furnace

Ceramic Moulding Process (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Pattern Preparation

Pattern is made with high dimensional accuracy.
Pattern may be reusable (metal/plastic) or expendable (wax).

2️⃣ Slurry Preparation

Fine ceramic powders mixed with liquid binder.
Produces a smooth, free-flowing slurry.

3️⃣ Mould Formation

Pattern is coated or poured with ceramic slurry.
Multiple layers may be applied for strength.

4️⃣ Drying & Hardening

Coated pattern is dried at room temperature.
Removes moisture and improves strength.

5️⃣ Pattern Removal

Wax patterns are melted out.
Rigid patterns are mechanically removed.

6️⃣ Firing (Baking)

Ceramic mould is fired in a furnace (900–1200°C).
Improves strength, permeability, and thermal stability.

7️⃣ Pouring of Molten Metal

Molten metal is poured into the hot ceramic mould.

8️⃣ Cooling & Solidification

Controlled cooling prevents cracks and defects.

9️⃣ Mould Breakout & Finishing

Ceramic mould is broken to remove casting.
Minor machining and surface finishing done.

Types of Ceramic Moulding

Conventional Ceramic Mould Casting
Shell Ceramic Moulding
Investment Casting (Ceramic Shell Casting)

Advantages of Ceramic Moulding

✔ Excellent surface finish
✔ High dimensional accuracy
✔ Can cast very complex shapes
✔ Suitable for high-melting metals
✔ Thin-wall castings possible