In the investment casting process, a wax pattern of the desired finished part is created (Figure A) and mounted onto a wax tree or pattern (Figure B). The wax tree is alternatively dipped into a ceramic slurry and sprinkled with stucco material in a controlled atmosphere and allowed to dry (Figure C). This process is repeated until a thick shell is created over the wax pattern. The wax is melted out leaving a cavity in the shape of the pattern (Figure D). The cavity is subsequently poured with molten metal and allowed to solidify (Figure E). After solidification, the shell is broken away, gating material removed and the finished part remains (Figure F).