Waxuum
Release status: Experimental
Description | A subtractive toolhead for making patterns in wax.
|
License | unknown
|
Author | |
Contributors | |
Based-on | [[]]
|
Categories | |
CAD Models | |
External Link |
The waxuum (waxuum = wax vacuum) is sort of a reverse-extruder. The idea is that a heated hollow needle is used to remove material from a block of wax in a controlled manner, analogous to conventional machining using an endmill. A vacuum pump pulls the molten wax through the needle, after which it is deposited in a reservoir where it can be recycled. The wax part can then be used directly, or more likely it can be used as a pattern for a mold. The process goes by several names; it was called the "hot wax vacuum method" in this classic article from Don Lancaster's Hardware Hacker column.
Waxuum is not intended to replace other methods of fabrication; rather it is meant to be used in special circumstances where it has unique advantages over, for example, extrusion and conventional machining.
Work in progress, more to come...