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Post by upstatepano on Dec 9, 2017 15:29:02 GMT -5
Getting ready to make a mold for making pen blanks, first time trying. I plan to use Alumilite's High Strength 2, is this the correct product?
I have a pressure pot and a vacuum chamber. After I pour the mold should I vacuum or pressure (60psi) the mold until cured?
How long to cure?
I will be making the blanks with Alumilite Clear (Slow) and use the pressure pot to reduce bubbles.
Thanks for your help.
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Post by upstatepano on Dec 12, 2017 23:27:00 GMT -5
Bump,anyone have an answer?
Thanks
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Post by jbg230 on Dec 15, 2017 0:46:14 GMT -5
Upstatepano,
I'm not sure if the High Strength 2 is the correct material to make pen blank molds. You can however buy pre-made silicone molds for casting pen blanks. You can also make your own out of high density polyethelene (HDPE). Look for the smooth version, not textured. I made my own molds out of this material. You have to use Stoner mold release urethane spray though so the blanks come out of the mold easy. You can also use 3/4", either transparent or white PVC tubing for the casting. Stoner is definitely needed for these and of course a rack to keep them vertical in the pressure pot. There are good videos online about this stuff.
You should use a pressure pot, not vacuum, after pouring the mold regardless of the kind of mold you're using. 60 psi is plenty- many people only go up to 45 or 50 psi. 60 psi would be good if you are adding wood to the cast. Pressurize for 45 mins to 1 hour.
Not sure you need the Slow version of Clear. This product may offer a longer mold time, but I think also involves a longer cure time. The regular Alumilite Clear will allow enough mold time to make a reasonable number of pen blanks even when adding dyes and/or other materials.
I hope it all goes well.
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Post by carol - Alumilite Corp on Dec 22, 2017 8:42:38 GMT -5
Upstatepano,
Everything JBG230 says is correct. I would just like to add you can and the HS2 is used for pen blank molds. It would need to be degassed when making it so the air is removed before putting your resin in and putting the mold under pressure. Using high density polyethelene works among other materials as JBG said, but a release should be used, like Stoner. The nature of the beast with polyurethane resins ... they bond to everything but silicone. The Slow Clear seems to be requested more as it has the longer open time, that is the only difference between Alumilite Clear and Slow, both great products. The Slow Clear is recommended when the use is for large pieces, it disperses the heat over a longer period of time that makes less risk for fissures or cracks from the exotherm.
Happy Holidays!
Warmest Regards,
Carol
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Post by upstatepano on Jan 13, 2018 9:25:29 GMT -5
Thanks for the replies, I think I have it now and ready to give it a try.
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Post by carol - Alumilite Corp on Jan 17, 2018 15:32:13 GMT -5
Upstatepano,
If there is anything else please let us know.
Regards,
Carol
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