Typically the term investment casting  involves the loss of the master

and

the
mold, as in "lost wax" casting The wax is burned out (vaporized) in the
invstment
plaster. The molten metal is poured, centrifuged, steam pushed, etc into

the

plaster
and then the plaster is broken from the part. Properly accomplished this
provides
incredible detail in the finshed part. A version of this is often used

for

the
super alloys for turbine blades and such. The lost styrofoam is usually

done

in
sand, and the molten aluminum vaporizes the foam as it is poured in. On

some

engine blocks you can even see the "foam cooler type balls " as a

texture on

the cast surface. - Vance

Vance,
Yep, understood!
I certainly will investigate this particular process.
I've actually figured out a way to streamline the foundry process but don't
know the cost or feasibility as yet - still in the thought process.
George (down under)

 
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