Week 12: Molding and casting

Grupal Assigment

Creating the Mold:

Designing the Mold
  1. Sketch the Part:

    Begin by sketching the part you want to mold. Consider dimensions, features, and any specific requirements for your design.

    2. Sketch the Part
  2. Create the Mold Box:

    Use Tinkercad to create the mold box around your part design. This will define the boundaries of your mold.

Step 2: Mold Rendering in SolidWorks

Export from Tinkercad:

Export the mold from Tinkercad.

Import the STL file into SolidWorks.

Design the Mold in SolidWorks:

In SolidWorks, design the mold. The mold should consist of two parts, the top, and the bottom, to allow for easy removal of the casting.
Ensure that there are holes for pouring the resin and vents for air to escape.

Add Vents and Pour Hole:

Add vents and a pour hole to the mold to allow air to escape and resin to enter.


Rendering:

Render the mold to visualize the final design.

3D Printing the Mold

Export the Mold:

Export the mold from SolidWorks to your 3D printer’s software. Configure print settings such as layer height, infill density, and print speed according to the capabilities of your 3D printer and the desired quality of the mold.

Prepare the Mold for Printing:

Orient the mold appropriately on the printing bed.

Slice the mold for 3D printing.

Casting Process:

Clean the Mold:

Ensure that the mold is clean and free from any dust or debris.

Apply Mold Release:

Apply a mold release agent to the mold to make it easier to remove the cast later.

Step 2:
    Mixing and Pouring the Silicone:

    Prepare the Silicone 3030Mix the silicone according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    Pour the Silicone into the Mold:

    Pour the mixed silicone into the mold slowly to avoid air bubbles.

    Remove Air Bubbles:

    Use a toothpick to remove any air bubbles trapped in the silicone.

    Allow the Silicone to Cure:

    Let the silicone cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    Demolding

    Carefully remove the casting from the mold.

    Clean Up:

    Clean up any excess material from the casting.

    Final Touches:

    Perform any necessary finishing touches to the casting.

    Final Result:

    Safety Precautions

    • Ensure proper ergonomics and posture while working to prevent strain or injury.
    • Design a sturdy mold box structure to prevent warping or deformation during the molding process.
    • Double-check the exported file to avoid any errors or missing elements before importing into SolidWorks.
    • Save your work frequently in SolidWorks to prevent data loss.
    • Ensure proper ventilation in your workspace when working with SolidWorks to avoid inhaling any fumes from the modeling process.
    • Handle the printing bed and materials with care to avoid injury, and follow recommended safety guidelines for operating your 3D printer.
    • Thoroughly clean the 3D-printed mold to remove any dust, debris, or residue from the printing process.
    • Use appropriate cleaning agents and protective equipment when cleaning the mold to avoid skin irritation or inhalation of cleaning fumes.
    • Follow manufacturer instructions for the application of mold release agents, and ensure adequate ventilation in your workspace.