RIM Casting
Reaction Injection Moulding, known as RIM casting, is the process of injecting polyurethane resin into a mould under low pressure.
RIM casting is used for rapid prototyping and low volume production, as the process offers a fast turnaround and robust end use products.
Fast Process
Tooling Alternative
How the RIM process works
RIM casting is a reactive technique that uses two component polyurethane, silicone moulds to quickly create robust parts.
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- 3D CAD file is reviewed by the AME-3D production team
- CAD file is set-up in the SLA or SLS system
- The master is completed to the specified surface finish
- A silicone mould is created from the master pattern
- Once cured the silicone mould is opened along a predetermined parting line
- The polyurethane is poured in and the mould is cast in the RIM casting chamber
- Any excess material is skilfully removed
- The RIM cast product is finalised with the requested finish
- 3D CAD file is reviewed by the AME-3D production team
Aesthetic Products
Large Products
RIM Casting Application and Uses
- Rapid prototyping
- Low volume production
- Robust base units
- Underbonet components
- Automotive seat belt and seat cover mouldings
- Medical devices and laboratory equipment
- Marine, diving and sonar devices
RIM Casting Quantities
- Up to 50 parts can be cast per tool
- Typically 3 - 20 mm wall thickness
Parts at the end of their lifecycle can be ground into bulk filler for the composite or construction industry.
Lead times
Typical RIM lead times are:
- 8-10 days
If you require your project sooner, our team can advise you and offer an express service.
If the material you need isn’t listed, we order material in for customers. Simply discuss your project specifications with our sales team.
AME 3829
A two component polyurethane material similar to ABS and polypropylene available in either black or beige.
| Tensile Strength | Shore Hardness | Elongation Break |
| 43 - 47 MPa | 82 - 86D | 5 - 7% |
| Flexural Strength | Flexural Modulus | Heat Deflection Temp |
| 63 - 67 MPa | 1,400 - 1,600 MPa | 82 - 86°C |
Finishes for RIM Casting
- Cosmetic surface finishing
Benefits
RIM Casting is an accurate, low pressure technique that creates robust and durable parts. Its main benefits include:
- Robust parts
- Cost-effective tooling
- High temperature materials available
- Strong and high impact resistant material available
- Durable polyurethane housings
