Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.30765/er.3399
Experimental comparison of silicone casting moulds produced by additive manufacturing technologies
Stjepan Vranjković
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zagreb, Croatia
*
Bruno Krajačić
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zagreb, Croatia
Luka Didak
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zagreb, Croatia
Damir Godec
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Moulds for Room Temperature Vulcanizing silicone casting produced using additive manufacturing technologies are gaining importance in modern production for their rapid, precise, and customizable fabrication. However, various three-dimensional printing methods yield different qualitative traits affecting mould functionality, durability, and applicability. This study compares moulds produced by fused filament fabrication, liquid crystal display vat photopolymerization, and PolyJet material jetting from identical computer-aided design models, assessing surface roughness, dimensional accuracy, hardness, and abrasion resistance via profilometry, three-dimensional optical scanning, and standardized tests. The fused filament fabrication process shows high roughness with visible layer lines, limiting high-precision uses. The liquid crystal display process achieves the lowest roughness and best surface quality, while material jetting offers superior accuracy, hardness, and wear resistance. The results provide a standardized framework for technology selection in the medical industry, specifically for applications requiring high hygienic and anatomical fidelity.
Keywords
additive manufacturing; mould; RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone; FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication); LCD (Liquid Crystal Display); PolyJet
Hrčak ID:
350087
URI
Publication date:
4.8.2026.
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