6. Moulding and casting¶
This week, we focused on two key manufacturing processes: milling and casting/molding.
To start, we reviewed the safety data sheets for the various molding and casting materials we would be working with. We then proceeded to make and compare test casts using different materials, including silicone, gypsum, and resin. Personally, I decided to work with resin. I researched its safety, the process steps, mix ratios, work and cure times, and the final cured material state.
After the initial material testing, I designed a 3D model of a lemon slice using SketchUp, as I am quite fond of lemons.
I exported the design as an STL file and set up the monoFab milling machine using the Exquisite Habbi SRP Player software. We edited the size and surface finish of the mold, ensuring the edges were curved, and selected the “cut top only” option. After previewing the milling path, we started the milling process using a 1/16” tool bit, as recommended by the software. The milling took approximately 27 minutes to create two mold pieces.
Once the milling was complete, we cleaned the molds and tested their volume by pouring in water. This helped us determine the amount of silicone required to create the molds. We then mixed and poured the silicone, allowing it to cure for 24 hours.
After the molds were ready, I mixed resin with a touch of color and poured it into the molds.
Once the resin had cured, I removed the lemon slice castings and added keychains to them.
Here were the 3 stages.
Overall, I found this week’s activities, which combined milling and casting/molding, to be quite enjoyable and informative.