Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Mold making using 3D SLS

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic13012.aspx

By paul2231 - 9/25/2014 11:05:52 PM

Hi
I would like to cast components using 3D printed molds.
The 3D printing process uses laser sintered nylon which has a rough porous surface,
the first attempt using blue PVA release agent and polyurathane casting failed, and using Easy-Lease did not work well either
with the casting material sticking to the mold.
Do you have any recommendations on types of surface preparation, release and casting compounds ?
Alternatively I could cast a silicon mold from a 3D printed positive, however dimensional stability is important - I am looking for 0.3mm in 100mm.
Many thanks.
Regards
Paul
By scottracing - 9/30/2014 9:14:10 PM

when ive done 3d printed tools, especially the nylon ones, it takes a lot of surface cleaning and sanding to get smooth. they then need to be painted ideally and then polished but it depends on your application.
Plus the nylon starts deforming at 80degrees so if you are doing prepreg or post cure in the tool you need to be aware of that too