total newbie wants to cast this

[wmich50]

These are 3d prints I ordered from Shapeways.
They are 60mm dia x 8mm at the thickest.
One is detail resin, the other is alumite.
Would like to cold cast a couple of bronze copies of the detail print.




Have never tried this, just wondering if it's possible.

I have a vacuum chamber that I've never used, and a gram scale that's probably good enough.

Don't have enough knowledge to have a preference for materials.
Just hoping I can purchase something that will produce satisfactory molds and castings.

One piece mold and gravity pour would suit my capabilities.

Any thoughts will be appreciated.

[Fleafa]

Vacuum on it's own may be good enough, though I always use pressure as well.
Do you have a vacuum chamber or just a pump?

Is the back flat? If so, you could do an open cast. Would save having to deal with all those teeth needing runners. Alternative to the runners would be mounting the whole thing on a thin plasticard disc.

Check out Smooth-On's products and tutorials:
http://www.benam.co.uk/products/plastic ... -cast-325/
http://www.benam.co.uk/products/polyest ... er-filler/

[mangozac]

[wmich50]

Here's what I finally ordered.
Guess I'll take a crack at it.
Can't afford many mistakes with this stuff.

Bronze Powder - 1 lb.
SO-Strong® 9-Pack Color Sampler
Ease Release 200 - Aerosol Can
Mold Max 14 NV - Trial Size
Smooth-Cast 327 - Trial Size

[mangozac]

Is there detail on the back side? If not then I'd be inclined to cast as an open top mould as Fleafa suggested.

[wmich50]

Backside is flat.
Will be using an open top mold.

For such a small casting, should I do a gel coat followed by back-fill as the Smooth On website says, or just mix in the metal powder and pour the item all at once.

[Fleafa]

Pour all in one go. Backfilling only makes sense where the material savings outweigh the extra time cost.

[wmich50]

Got it. Thanks

[wmich50]

Thanks for the advice.
Here's the first casting.
Actually looks better than this image (crappy camera).
I'm pleased.

[Blindhorizon]

Honestly that looks pretty darn fantastic to me! You are an official resin caster now, welcome!

[Fleafa]

Great! Glad it has gone so well for you

[Beo]

That looks great!

Regarding the Mold Max 14 NV; did you vacuum or use pressure? I hear you don't have to degass Mold Max 14 NV.

Thanks.