Mold making is not always as easy as ABC. But it’s not like rocket science either. You should know when you need to make a mold in more than one simple part and the intricacies involved in the same.
Making a block mold of a model is a simple and straightforward process. However, there are some models that demand two part molds!
Making a block mold of a model is a simple and straightforward process. However, there are some models that demand two part molds!
Suppose the model has a protrusion – like a mug with a handle. This will make it difficult to remove the model and later the cast from a single piece mold. Or, if the model has a narrow base when compared to the rest of the body – again, extracting the model becomes tricky. In fact, it is just not possible to get the model out of the mold without breaking it apart!
So, why not make the mold in parts itself?
Indeed, multi-part mold making involves making separate parts of the mold that will come together to form a complete mold. The process begins with forming a parting line on the model. This will divide the piece in such a way that the part to be molded does not have any undercuts that will impede its removal from the mold later on. Most times, two mold parts will do; however, intricate shapes may require three or even more parts.
Next you have to cover the mold till the parting line, so that only the part to be cast is visible. This is usually done using clay. While at it, you will also have to mark sprues and keys on the clay surface along the parting line. The sprue forms the opening for pouring in the casting material while the keys are a set of identical protrusions and indentations that will allow the mold halves to align accurately.
Now make the first half of the mold and once set, remove the clay before making a mold of the other half as well. Later, you can easily separate the two parts to reveal the model inside. The two part mold is ready for casting in the material of your choosing.
For more information on the materials and steps for making two part molds, contact EnvironMolds or check out their website, https://www.artmolds.com.
So, why not make the mold in parts itself?
Indeed, multi-part mold making involves making separate parts of the mold that will come together to form a complete mold. The process begins with forming a parting line on the model. This will divide the piece in such a way that the part to be molded does not have any undercuts that will impede its removal from the mold later on. Most times, two mold parts will do; however, intricate shapes may require three or even more parts.
Next you have to cover the mold till the parting line, so that only the part to be cast is visible. This is usually done using clay. While at it, you will also have to mark sprues and keys on the clay surface along the parting line. The sprue forms the opening for pouring in the casting material while the keys are a set of identical protrusions and indentations that will allow the mold halves to align accurately.
Now make the first half of the mold and once set, remove the clay before making a mold of the other half as well. Later, you can easily separate the two parts to reveal the model inside. The two part mold is ready for casting in the material of your choosing.
For more information on the materials and steps for making two part molds, contact EnvironMolds or check out their website, https://www.artmolds.com.
April 28, 2019 at 7:24 PM
Thank you for sharing this post and for mold making supplies materials I'm very thankful that our instructor gave us reference. Thanks again.