AK Sangyo Co., Ltd. Crafts Department
We have been planning and manufacturing metal goods for over 50 years.
We are particularly skilled in producing small OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts using the "rubber cast" technique .
We are committed to domestic manufacturing, and have achieved an integrated in-house manufacturing process by our craftsmen.
Main business items
Pewter (tin products), table accessories, various small precision weights, tourist products, magnetic golf markers
Key chains , netsuke, mobile phone straps, various badges, accessories, tinware
In addition, we can plan and manufacture all kinds of metal parts.
(We also handle small lots)
What is Rubber Cast?
Rubber casting is a casting technique in which the original object is wrapped in rubber to create a mold, and then molten metal or resin is poured into the mold to create a replica.
A prototype made from resin, metal, wood, etc. is covered with silicone rubber, which is then cured to form a resilient rubber mold. Once the prototype is removed from the rubber mold, molten metal is poured into the cavity and allowed to cool and solidify.
The elasticity of the rubber mold allows even complex shapes to be easily created, allowing for precise reproduction of even the smallest details.
At AK, we mainly use tin alloys and zinc alloys as materials.
Benefits of Rubber Casting
Tin alloy rubber casting uses tin, which melts at a relatively low temperature, so the rubber mold can be used without destruction and multiple copies can be made from the same mold. This technique is suitable for products that require high dimensional accuracy and surface quality, such as jewelry and small precision parts.
We can beautifully express in metal delicate patterns, undercuts, and handmade textures that were previously impossible to achieve with a mold.
Rubber Cast Process
Design and Modeling
We decide on the product design and confirm the final product shape and dimensions.
Creating the prototype
Create a master model
Rubber mold making
The original model is placed in a rubber mold using a hot press to create a rubber mold. The original model is then removed to create a cavity in the rubber mold.
Molten alloy is poured into this cavity and allowed to cool and harden to create a replica of the original.
Mold preparation
A release agent is applied to the rubber mold and then it is set in the centrifugal casting machine.
The metal is poured in through a central inlet.
casting
The alloy is melted in a melting furnace and injected into a rubber mold.
By rotating the centrifugal casting machine, centrifugal force is applied to every corner of the mold.
Centrifugal force ensures accurate application of even the finest details.
Will be reproduced
Extraction
Remove the casting from the mold.
The removed casting has a runner through which the alloy passes.
trimming
Remove all runners other than the product area.
Finishing
We carefully remove burrs and other imperfections using files etc.
Completed
The product is then plated and painted, and a ball chain and other parts are attached to complete the product.
The product will be delivered to the customer after inspection.
We also provide various types of packaging.
Production Gallery
Inquiries (Crafts Department)
AK Sangyo Co., Ltd. Crafts Department
aksk@ak-sangyo.com
22-6 Miyamotocho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 174-0054
TEL 03-3965-9651
Reception hours: 8:45-17:00
Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays