When I was first getting into CNC machining as a refugee from 3D printing I didn't try machinable wax. I thought it was just a material pro-shops used for tool path checking. But then I found you can use it for direct production of excellent resin casting moulds, using a design approach similar to injection moulding.
There wasn't much "how to" on the web so I decided to make my own video so other people getting into CNC at desktop level can draw on my observations / experience.
If this video proves popular, I'll add videos on how to do the casting box, and show the process of casting the final product.
The objects being made in this video are for the Dremel Tool Carrier adapter (225 to 220) I've shown in another video in a 3D printed version. That item is available from Shapeways, but this version will be available from Ebay at a much lower price, since once you have a mould, resin casting is far cheaper (and better finish, and more material options) than 3D printing.
Machinable wax is now my favourite material for mould making. There are a few drawbacks / complications in its use against alternatives like tooling board, but its much faster and easier to machine, and if you stuff it up, you can always re-melt it and start again. Small mistakes can sometimes even be rectified by doing local welding or fills on a partly finished piece.
If you'd like to try this a project for yourself I can send you the STL files (no charge) if you leave me your email on the contact form link below. Bear in mind that the adapter threaded portion requires a little more effort to machine than the the other three parts shown in the video. It requires a 3 piece mould where I use cast silicon rubber for one part. This was a bit complex to show in a video, but if you want to do the project I can let you know how I did it - bearing in mind there's plenty of other methods to try.
If you have queries, or improvement suggestions arising from the video, please feel to post comments or give me feedback via www.highpaidhobo.com
If you'd like to do this project yourself, I can send you STL files of the 3D model. Please leave a message at:
https://docs.google.com/a/highpaidhobo.com/forms/d/1Ej0uJOCLni6hc70eYV7Gx_Nvzfu5VWLtCKtTIOhN64M/viewform
You can buy the full adapter assembly (ie the end result of this video) at Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Adapter-for-Dremel-225-to-220-/222406135764
