Abstract: A method of making a casting is disclosed. At least one support member has at least one first portion and a plurality of second portions connected to a mold core. The mold core is positioned at least in part in a sealed interior volume of a negative mold. The first portion is positioned outside the interior volume. The second portions are positioned at least in part inside the interior volume. A consumable pattern material is introduced into the negative mold to create a consumable pattern. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the consumable pattern. The consumable pattern is removed from the negative mold. A shell is formed around the consumable pattern. A casting material is introduced into an interior of the shell to create a final casting. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the final casting. A mold core is also described.

Abstract: A method of making a casting is disclosed. At least one support member has at least one first portion and a plurality of second portions connected to a mold core. The mold core is positioned at least in part in a sealed interior volume of a negative mold. The first portion is positioned outside the interior volume. The second portions are positioned at least in part inside the interior volume. A consumable pattern material is introduced into the negative mold to create a consumable pattern. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the consumable pattern. The consumable pattern is removed from the negative mold. A shell is formed around the consumable pattern. A casting material is introduced into an interior of the shell to create a final casting. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the final casting. A mold core is also described.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying glue to a foam pattern section, the apparatus including a glue print plate including an upper surface having an inner raised portion surrounded by a lower portion, and a dam at least partially surrounding the lower portion for reducing squeeze-out of glue from between the inner raised portion and the pattern section.

Abstract: A molding aperture comprising a mold piece having therein an aperture and including a surface at least partially defining a mold cavity, the mold piece being made of a first material, an ejector pin slideably housed in the aperture and made of second material substantially softer than the first material, and a mechanism for moving the ejector pin relative to the mold piece so that the ejector pin separates a molded part from the mold piece surface.