Joined: Jan 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 164 Location: Huntington Beach, USA
Re: Plaster Molds from Clay Models « Result #1 on Jul 22, 2009, 9:51am »
Basil,
I think if you're using fiberglass then coat the clay with shellac to form a hard coat. Several coats will give a good thickness then use regular paste wax and polish out. This gives you the first barrier of the release agent. Then apply a water based release agent Partall (http://www.freemansupply.com/PartallFilm10.htm) from Freeman Supply, see link. Once the Partall is dry apply paste wax and polish out again, this gives you several barriers of release giving you a good chance to save the clay.
You can also add another layer of Partall to the second wax coat for added precaution and apply another wax coat on top and polished out. You will find when the mold is broken from the clay the release agent should just peel out but like anything it's all in the preparation.
Joined: Jul 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 18 Location: Atlanta, GA
Re: Plaster Molds from Clay Models « Result #2 on Jul 21, 2009, 6:26pm »
OK Steve - I've decided to take things in a whole new direction. I am giving up on plaster molds due to the weight and apllication on vertical surfaces. What a pain in the rear! For that reason, I thing I am going to try an epoxy based system. Any suggestions on a simple way to prepped the clay prior to applying an epoxy surface coat and subsequent layers of cloth and laminating resin? Thanks...
Joined: Jul 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 18 Location: Atlanta, GA
Re: Plaster Molds from Clay Models « Result #5 on Apr 28, 2009, 10:25pm »
Thanks Steve - What do recommend in as far as building up the plaster mold? I've tried hemp, but it's very bulky, very random, and doesn't work well for forming up against the shim stock for a decent vertical flange wall. Your expertise is greatly appreciated!
Joined: Jan 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 164 Location: Huntington Beach, USA
Re: Plaster Molds from Clay Models « Result #6 on Apr 23, 2009, 4:35pm »
Basil, create the flange by inserting shim stock at the joint line and add a register every so many inches to locate each piece. The register can be just a piece of clay that you stick to the shim stock while the plaster is laid up. Once that side of the plaster is cured the shim stock is removed together with the clay registers and the next part of the mold is cast, use a release agent on the plaster face to help in dismantling.
Before stripping from the model drill bolt holes to lock the parts together. This will ensure integrity of the mold. If you prefer not to use shim stock build the joint face with clay instead and use the same registration sequence.
Joined: Jul 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 18 Location: Atlanta, GA
Re: Attributes of a seasoned traditional modeler « Result #7 on Apr 22, 2009, 9:53pm »
Steve, I agree, while I am not a pro with Alias - I do use another surface modeler (Rhinoceros). The real issue is the visual interface involved with 3D computer modeling. You're interpreting a 3D model on a 2D screen. We'll just have to see where the technology takes us. On the other hand, "Never say never" - I am a mechanical engineer by trade and I remember a fellow engineer telling me computers are only good for drawing circles and straight lines. That was in 1983 - Now look how far we have come!
Joined: Jul 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 18 Location: Atlanta, GA
Plaster Molds from Clay Models « Result #8 on Apr 22, 2009, 4:23pm »
Hi All,
I was wondering if anyone had some good advise for creating multiple piece molds from clay models. I'm looking for a process that's convenient - as these are just temporary molds. I've attempted to use tooling (Ultracal 30) plaster backed with hemp. I like the fact that plaster doesn't smell like most fiberglass resins, but it's heavy and bulky. I biggest issue I have with it is creating flanges for multiple piece molds. I wonder how they do it in design the studios. Any advise is greatly appreciated!
Joined: Jan 2004 Gender: Male Posts: 164 Location: Huntington Beach, USA
Re: CLAY MODEL SPORTS CAR « Result #10 on Dec 1, 2008, 5:49pm »
Satay1947,
Maybe you need to expand on the application you would be using this model for and what the end goal would be. This would factor into the cost of your project.
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