Some call it a non-issue, as PLA can be used for lost-wax casting, but there is no doubt in my mind that the possibility to use a wax filament in an FDM/FFF 3D printer will open up new opportunities. Wax is undoubtedly the ideal material for lost-wax processes: it does not create ash content, shrinks in a more controllable manner and does not interact with the investment casting material.
Makers and jewellers have been trying different ways of using wax in FFF 3D printing, especially since these machines tend to be more affordable than the stereolithography 3D printers commonly used for lost wax investment castings today — but until now the solutions found were approximate at best.
The first real wax filaments for use in FFF/FDM 3D printing has just been announced by Design for Craft (DfC), an Italian company dedicated to developing new and innovative types of filament. Just a few days ago we reported on their new multicolor stick filament Indiegogo campaign and, apparently, there are many more projects in the works.
In fact using a wax filament would not have been possible with an extruded filament spool. It is one of the first advantages offered by the stick shape to be introduced by the company and it is still in beta testing. What we do know is that it requires low temperatures (between 120° and 130°), works at low speeds and does best with a medium size nozzle.
For those working with lost wax casting it may be a welcome new addition to the real of possibilities offered by 3D printing technologies and materials. To accelerate development, DfC are looking for support of their Indiegogo campaign. We, in turn, will keep you posted on all upcoming news.
