Abstract
Should the fabrication of microparts by casting become possible, the range of possible methods applicable for the fabrication of three-dimensional parts will widen further. Thus far, we have examined a method of producing precision metal microparts through the fabrication of casting molds using a temporary disposal three-dimensional model, followed by transfer of the mold shape by casting. However, in a method in which casting molds are fabricated by increasing the density of ceramic powders by the application of centrifugal force to ceramic slurry, the model itself is deformed due to the centrifugal force when the model rigidity is low. Accordingly, it is impossible to fabricate casting molds for model shapes that are precisely prescribed. In this study, casting molds were fabricated by electrophoresis, which is a method that does not deform the shape of the original model. The results indicate that casting of cilia of 1μm diameter was possible when an ant was used as a model for shape transfer.
