Mold making and Casting products through EnvironMolds, LLC

 

Accuracy is the key factor when it comes to ballistic testing. From designing body armors to analyzing would patterns and improving ammunition, the ability to simulate real-world impacts is critical. A field that was once dominated by clay blocks and metal plates but lacked the complexity and realism needed for precise data collection. With the emergence of ballistic gel torso, there has been a cutting-edge innovation that has transformed the way in which ballistic test is performed. Today, they have become an indispensable tool in various fields lie law enforcement, forensic science, and ballistic testing labs.

Gel Torsos: Things to Know

Typically, a gel torso is a three-dimensional and anatomical model of the upper human body made using ballistic gelatin. Unlike simple gelatin blocks, these torsos look more real. For instance, when it comes to simulating human tissue, you can rely on the ballistic gel-made torsos featuring detailed internal structures like:

• Organs like liver heart, and lungs
• Bone stimulants like ribs, sternum, and spine
• Skin layers or coatings
• Muscle and fat layers

Some high-end gel torsos may include embedded sensors to measure penetration depth and transfer of projectile energy. The reason for designing these models is that they closely replicate the density, elasticity, and response of real human tissues when impacted by shrapnel, bullets, or blunt force.

Why Traditional Gel Falls Short?

Standard ballistic gelatin, usually available in block form has remained the industry benchmark for testing penetration and bullet expansion. Even though useful, it still has several limitations:

• Lacks anatomical structure

A gelatin block cannot simulate bones, organs, or tissue layers.

• Unrealistic wound channel data

Without skin and internal components, wound behavior lacks context

• Low repeatability

Gelatin consistency may vary depending on temperature, mix ratios, and curing time.

• No real-world information

It fails to factor in how a bullet interacts with multiple layers of the human body.

These drawbacks can lead to inaccurate data, particularly when testing for protective gear performance, deadliness of ammunition or prediction of trauma.

How Ballistic Gel Improves Testing?

Here is how ballistic gel revolutionizes the field of ballistic testing:

Anatomical Realism

One of the most significant benefits of gel torsos is their anatomical realism. Bullets and shrapnel behave differently when they strike skin, pass through muscle and bone or fragment inside organs. Gel torsos simulate all of this in one unit.

This level of realism allows researchers to better understand terminal ballistics and predict real-world injury outcomes. That way, it helps manufacturers and defense agencies develop more effective gear and medical response strategies.

Controlled and Repeatable Testing

Unlike traditional gelatin, many gel torsos are made from synthetic and temperature-stable materials that do not degrade or require refrigeration. This allows for:

• Consistent density and elasticity
• Multiple rounds of testing per torso
• Easier comparison of different types of ammunition

By standardizing the testing medium, labs can collect more reliable and repeatable data, which is essential for meeting industry standards and safety regulations.

Training and Educational Tool

Ballistic gel torsos are not just for laboratories. It is also used in tactical training environments, medical education, and forensic science instruction. Trainees can visualize how bullets interact with the body, how wounds form, and how internal damage correlates with entrance and exit wounds.

For forensic teams, this helps improve:

• Wound ballistics interpretation
• Crime scene reconstruction
• Autopsy training

The visual and physical feedback of gel torsos enhance learning far beyond what textbooks and diagrams can provide.

Data-Driven Forensic Analysis

Advanced gel torsos often come with embedded sensors that capture high-speed data like

• Impact force
• Pressure wave propagation
• Internal organ disruption
• Energy transfer over distance

This quantifiable data is crucial in criminal cases, accident investigations, and trauma research. It allows forensic scientists to reconstruct bullet paths, determine angles of entry, and even assess survival scenarios.

Final Thoughts

Ballistic gel torsos are more than just fancy test dummies but revolutionizing how we test, analyze and understand ballistic impacts. By combining realism, repeatability, and detailed anatomical accuracy, they provide unmatched insights into how weapons, armor, and trauma interact with the human body.

At Environ Molds, we specialize in professional mold-making to realistic life casting and forensic simulation by providing materials and expertise you need to create with confidence. Touch down here for https://www.artmolds.com/  for more information.

 

This infographic by EnvironMolds explains how pressure pot casting helps eliminate air bubbles in resin projects. It highlights the common problem of air bubbles weakening castings and reducing clarity, then presents the solution of using a pressure pot. By pressurizing resin during curing, air bubbles are compressed until they vanish, ensuring smooth, strong, crystal-clear results. The infographic also outlines the key benefits such as flawless finishes, professional detail capture, durability, and versatility for resin, silicone, and urethane. Additionally, it describes the step-by-step process of using a pressure pot and identifies its users, including artists, makers, DIY resin enthusiasts, and small businesses. Finally, it emphasizes why ArtMolds’ pressure pot is the right choice for casting—reliability, safety, ease of use, and ideal sizing.

 

If your hobby is preparing resin art or casting prototypes, a pressure pot for resin is what you mandatorily need to produce bubble-free and high-quality results. However, you cannot just own the pot but pay heed to proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure that it operates safely and performs consistently over time.

Reasons To Maintain the Pressure Pot

The pressure pot is subject to frequent pressure and exposed to sticky resins as well various hardening agents. In the absence of proper maintenance, it can:

• Corrode or clog internally
• Fail to maintain pressure
• Reduce the quality and clarity of your castings
• Develop safety hazards and leaks

A little effort helps extend pressure pot life and ensures safety during operations.

Key Components of the Pressure Pot

Before starting the maintenance operations, here is a quick review of the pressure pot:

• Tank – The main chamber that holds your molds during curing
• Lid – Usually bolted or clamped on and fitted with pressure seals
• Pressure gauge – Displays internal pressure
• Safety valve – Prevents over-pressurization
• Inlet valve and regulator – Controls air from the compressor
• Seals and gaskets – Ensure airtight performance

Each of these parts plays a crucial role in safety, so you need to conduct maintenance for the best results.

How to Clean And Maintain Resin Pressure Pot?

De-Pressurize the Pressure Pot

You must never clean the pressure pot when it under pressure. Allow the resin to cure and release the pressure gradually using the release valve or the regulator knob. You must open the lid only when the pressure gauge reads zero.

Removal of Excess Resin

Next, you must check for spilled and leaked resin inside the pot. Use a plastic scraper or resin-safe solvent like acetone or isopropyl alcohol to clean the spills or semi spills.

• Do not use sharp-edged metal tools to scrape the spills when cleaning pressure pot as it can damage the inside of the tank.
• Use nitrile gloves and ensure proper ventilation when using solvents.

Clean the Lid and Interiors

You need to wipe the interior of the tank as well as the underside of the lid using a lint-free cloth and mild solvent. Check the area around the sealing surfaces and the gasket where resin is likely to accumulate and cause leaks.

Clean the Gasket

Examine the lid gasket and O-ring for resin buildup, cracks, or wear

• Clean the gasket gently using a cloth dipped in mild soap or alcohol
• Apply a small amount of silicone grease to allow it to stay pliable and intact

Try to replace gaskets when they become dry, cracked and fail to seal properly.

Check and Clean Fittings and Valves

You need to inspect the inlet, outlet, ad safety valves for dust, resin buildup, or corrosion.

• Stick to a soft brush or compressed air to remove debris
• Tighten the loose fittings
• When the valves stick or leak, you need to disassemble and clean or replace them as needed.

Test the Pressure Seal

During cleaning of pressure pot for resin, you cannot skip a quick pressure test:

• Close the pressure build and the lid to the working PSI
• Check if there is a drop in pressure or hissing as it indicates a potential leak
• Spray soapy water around the valves and seals as it reveals the leak points

Make sure to fix the leaks before using again

Conclusion

Your resin pressure pot is an investment and with the right care, it can last for years and deliver professional-quality castings every time. A clean, well-maintained pressure pot minimizes curing issues, improves consistency, and keeps your operation safe.

At EnvironMolds, we provide professional-grade mold-making, casting, and sculpting materials trusted by artists, designers, educators, and engineers worldwide. Visit https://www.artmolds.com/ to create with confidence.

 

Mold making is a critical process in prototyping, manufacturing and art casting. No matter if you are working with urethane, silicone, and epoxy or other materials, consistent quality of mold is essential for success. However, if you face issues when preparing molds, it may impact the performance, durability, and the final product quality.

Here are the most common mold making mistakes, the reasons they occur, and how to troubleshoot them effectively:

Formation of Air Bubbles in the Mold

Air bubbles are one of the most common and frustrating mold-making issues. They usually appear on the surface of the mold or are trapped in intricate details.

Here are the causes:

• Inadequate mixing technique
• Pouring too quickly
• No vacuum degassing or pressure casting
• Complex mold shapes or undercuts

Solutions:

• Mix slowly and thoroughly to avoid trapping air.
• Pour the material in a thin stream from one corner to let air escape naturally.
• Use a vacuum chamber to de-gas silicone before pouring.
• Consider pressure casting for bubble-free results, especially in detailed molds.

 

Inadequate Cure and Sticky Surface

Often, the mold does not solidify properly after the intended cure time.

Here are the causes:

• Inaccurate mixing ratios
• Poor mixing
• Contaminated mold surface
• Humidity or low temperatures affecting cure

Solutions:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing ratio in exact amount during mold making.
• Mix components thoroughly while scraping sides and bottom of the container.
• Make sure the model surface is clean and dry before pouring.
• Cure the mold in a controlled and dry environment at the recommended temperature.

Cracking or Tearing of Mold

What if the mold tears when removing the cast or develops cracks after multiple uses?

Here are the causes:

• Using the wrong type of silicone or material
• Mold design has sharp edges or deep undercuts
• Overstretching the mold during de-molding
• Low-quality or old materials

Solutions:

• Choose a silicone with appropriate tear strength for your application.
• Design molds with gentle transitions and proper draft angles.
• Apply a release agent and de-mold gently.
• Reinforce thin or weak areas with a mother mold with proper backing

Mold sticking to the model

The mold material often sticks to the original object and causes damage to it during removal.

Here are the causes:

• Lack of or  insufficient release agent
• Model made from incompatible material
• Mold surface not sealed properly

Solutions:

• Always use a suitable release agent recommended for your mold material and model.
• Seal porous models like wood or clay with shellac or sealant before molding.
• Test compatibility of mold material before full pours.

Short Mold Life or Early Damage

Mold wears out quickly or degrades after a few uses.

Here are the causes:

• Wrong mold material for the application
• Excessive heat or chemical exposure
• Harsh de-molding techniques
• Lack of proper maintenance

Solutions:

• Select mold materials designed for durability, especially for repeated casting.
• Avoid using molds with materials that exceed their temperature or chemical limits.
• Clean molds with mild soap and water and avoid solvents.

Apart from this, try to store molds in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture

Tips for better mold-making

• Plan your mold: You have to think about the design, orientation, and mold box setup before mixing any material.
• Measure accurately: Don’t forget to use proper digital scales for precision.
• Keep records: Remember to document your ratios, materials, and curing times to troubleshoot future issues.
• Practice safety: Try to always wear gloves and goggles and work in a well-ventilated area.

Conclusion

Mold-making is as much a science as it is an art. By understanding the common mold making mistakes and how to solve them, you can significantly improve the quality, durability, and consistency of your molds.

Final Thoughts

At Environ Molds, we don’t just sell materials but provide solutions. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, our premium-quality mold-making supplies, expert advice, and training resources help you troubleshoot issues and create flawless molds every time. Visit https://www.artmolds.com/ to explore our products and look to much-awaited finished molds.

From the foam in your mattress to the protective coating on hardwood floors and insulation of car parts, polyurethane plays a major role in everyday life. However, not many people are familiar with what polyurethane is and the different forms it can take.

Polyurethane: things to know

Polyurethane is a complex material that comprises a polypol and reacts with various additives and catalysts. However, difference in diocyanates and polypols make the structure of polyurethane different and hence it is suitable for different applications. Typically, it is a plastic that can be flexible at times and rigid at other times.

Benefits of polyurethane

Here are the key benefits of polyurethane you need to know:

• Resistance to abrasion

Polyurethane is the perfect choice for purposes where protection against wear and tear is needed despite low temperatures. No wonder they have been excessively used for those environments that are highly abrasive due to their ability to resist abrasion. No other plastics, elastomers, or metals show better resistance compared to polyurethane. It is estimated to be almost ten times better than any other material can provide.

• Durability and versatility

It can be manufactured in varied densities and hardness levels like elastic, solid, or foam, making it ideal for a variety of applications. No matter where it is used as floor coating or insulation foam, it is best-known for its resistance to abrasion, wear, and harsh environmental conditions.

• Lightweight

Despite the strength and durability of polyurethane material, it is lightweight, especially in the form of foam, making it an appropriate choice for aerospace and automotive industries to reduce overall weight and improve fuel efficiency.

• Chemical resistance

Polyurethane resists oil, grease, solvents, and other chemicals, which is critical in industrial applications where exposure is common.

• Resilience

Polyurethane is the perfect choice for elastomer applications that are known to absorb shock.  With high vibration frequency or the ability for quick recovery, it is indeed a very tough material.

Types of polyurethane materials

1. Flexible polyurethane foam

It is soft foam that is often found in everyday items.

Applications:

• Furniture cushions
• Bedding (mattresses, mattress toppers)
• Automotive seating
• Packaging

It is lightweight, soft, and returns to its original shape after compression. Its cushioning properties make it perfect for comfort-based applications.

2. Rigid polyurethane foam

It is closed-cell foam with high insulation value.

Applications:

• Building insulation (walls, roofs)
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Water heaters

It is known for exceptional thermal resistance and structural strength. It helps reduce energy costs and contributes to a building’s overall energy efficiency.

3. Polyurethane coatings and sealants

It is Liquid-based polyurethane that hardens into a protective coating.

Applications:

• Wood flooring
• Automotive paint
• Industrial machinery protection
• Marine environments

It is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and UV exposure and enhances the life and appearance of surfaces by forming a protective layer.

4. Thermoplastic polyurethane

 A type of polyurethane that behaves like plastic and can be melted and reshaped.

Applications:

• Phone cases
• Medical tubing
• Footwear
• Sporting goods

It is elastic, abrasion-resistant, and recyclable. TPU offers the flexibility of rubber with the processing ability of plastic, making it ideal for complex designs.

Polyurethane types – Ether and Ester

Ether-based polyurethanes are made with polyether polyols, allowing them superior moisture and hydrolysis resistance. Here are the properties:

• They are ideal for applications exposed to water, humidity, or outdoor elements.
• They also maintain flexibility in low temperatures, which is beneficial for environments with wide temperature fluctuations.
• Due to their resistance to microbial attack and environmental degradation, ether-based polyurethanes are commonly used in medical devices, marine applications, and outdoor cushioning products.
• They offer moderate abrasion and chemical resistance and tend to be more expensive than ester-based options

Ester-based polyurethanes are made with polyester polyols, are known for their high mechanical strength, tear resistance, and excellent abrasion performance.

• They are suitable for industrial applications where components are subject to heavy wear and require contact with oils, fuels, or solvents, as esters are more chemically resistant in those conditions.
• However, ester polyurethanes are less resistant to moisture and hydrolysis, which means they can degrade faster in humid or wet environments. They also tend to become stiffer in cold temperatures.
• Due to low-cost and strong physical performance, ester-based polyurethanes are widely used in the manufacturing of belts, seals, wheels, rollers, and coatings.

Polyurethane is truly one of the most adaptable materials in the modern world. Its unique properties make it an essential part of modern manufacturing and daily life. Whether you're an artist, educator, or industrial designer, Environ Molds offers the high-quality molding and casting supplies you need to turn ideas into reality. From lifecasting materials to professional-grade silicones and resins, we provide safe, reliable products trusted by creators worldwide. Click here https://www.artmolds.com/  to shop now.

 

 

This infographic highlights the surprising everyday applications of alginate, from food and beverages to dentistry, medicine, cosmetics, and mold making. Learn how this versatile natural material is used as a thickener in ice cream, an essential in dental impressions, a wound-healing agent, a skincare ingredient, and a safe molding material for lifecasting and arts. Discover why alginate is everywhere in your daily life!

 

Are you keen to try your hands for making your own jewelry, decorations, game pieces or tiny figures?  For beginners, resin casting is an excellent way to begin. While preparing these craft items, you can create duplicates of various small items. However, if you have just stepped into the world of resin casting, the biggest dilemma you may have is when choosing between epoxy and polyurethane resin casting. Even though both are durable, versatile, and widely used in DIY projects, industrial applications, and art, differences still exist.

So, which is the best resin casting for beginners? Let us break down the pros, cons, and ideal uses of these materials.

What is epoxy resin casting?

Epoxy resin is a two-fold system comprising a hardener and a resin. When both are combined, a chemical reaction takes place and begins to harden. This material is known for a long working time, high-gloss finish, and strong adhesion. No wonder epoxy resin casting is the trusted aide for your crafting adventures. This process is commonly used for the following:

• Resin jewelry and art
• Encapsulations like objects or flowers in resin
• River tables and tabletop coatings
• DIY crafts and home décor

You just need to get it from reputable online suppliers or the stores in your area before starting the project.

What is polyurethane resin casting?

Polyurethane resin is also a two-fold system but cures faster than epoxy and tailored for flexible and mechanical properties. Naturally, polyurethane resin casting is frequently used in the following:

• Casting and mold making
• Industrial parts and prototypes
• Flexible and rigid figures or props

While polyurethane has multiple strengths, it is not as forgiving as epoxy.

Key differences between polyurethane and epoxy resin casting

Features	Epoxy Resin	Polyurethane Resin
Cure Time	Slow – hours to days	Fast – Minutes
Work Time	Long – 20-60 minutes	Short – 2-15 minutes
Finish	Clear, glossy, and UV-resistant	Amber-tinted

 

Features	Epoxy Resin	Polyurethane Resin
Flexibility	Rigid	Rigid to highly flexible
Durability	Highly durable, chemical and moisture-resistant	Durable but tends to vary by formulation
Ease of use	Appropriate for beginners	Fast cure can be challenging
Toxicity/ Smell	Low odor and safer with ventilation	Strong odor and may need respirator
Cost	Expensive	Cheaper per volume

 

Why epoxy resin is good for beginners?

Here is why epoxy resin casting is a preferred method for beginners:

Longer working time

One of the biggest advantages of epoxy resin is its generous working time; you have almost twenty to sixty minutes to pour, mix, and manipulate the resin before it begins curing. That way, beginners have a lot of time to:

• Correct mistakes
• Add colors or inclusions
• Avoid panic or rushing

Polyurethane resins, on the other hand begins setting as early as two minutes, leaving you with little margin for error.

Clear and glossy finish

If you are making jewelry, art, or decorative pieces, the high-gloss and clear finish comes as a huge benefit. Polyurethane resins, on the other hand, often produce a matte surface when specific additives are not used.

Easy to find guides and supplies

Epoxy resin is a more popular material and hence you may come across pre-packaged kits, tutorials for beginners, and step-by-step guides online. Besides, there is a huge selection of accessories to choose from like molds, color pigments, and tools tailored to epoxy crafting.

Safe for use

Even though users need to follow precautionary measures while handling all kinds of resins, epoxy has mild odor and almost no harmful fumes compared to polyurethane. No wonder epoxy resin is labeled safe for indoor use.

Can beginners use polyurethane resin?

Polyurethane resin is not off-limits for first-times. It requires a bit more preparation and caution. So, as a beginner, you can reliably use polyurethane resin casting for:

• Detailed molds like props, miniatures, and figurines
• Quick turnaround time
• Projects that require rubber-like and flexible materials

However, the learning curve for polyurethane resin is steeper and you need to have proper safety gear for protecting the eyes, a well-ventilated workspace, and a respirator.

How to get started with epoxy and polyurethane resin?

Here is how to get started with epoxy resin and polyurethane resin:

Epoxy resin

• Start with a simple kit from a reputable brand
• Use silicone molds for easy demolding
• Resin and hardener must be mixed at the correct ratio
• Mix slowly to avoid bubbles
• Cure in a dust-free and warm area

Polyurethane resin

• Prepare everything before mixing as it cures very fast
• Use mold release spray to protect molds
• Be prepared to work fast and clean
• Always use a respirator and work in a ventilated area

When it comes to resin casting for beginners, epoxy is the unanimous choice. From longer working time to aesthetic results and ease of use makes it an ideal choice. When you are familiar with resin work and ready to experiment with faster cures, it might be the right time to work with polyurethane.

Explore high-quality, beginner-friendly resin and mold-making supplies from EnvironMolds. Whether you are starting your first epoxy project or looking to experiment with polyurethane casting, we've got everything you need to bring your ideas to life. Visit https://www.artmolds.com/ to shop for the supplies.