Lay-Up Mold Making

What Types of Parts are Good Candidates for Lay-Up Mold Making?

Lay-Up Mold Making is considered to be both the simplest and oldest form of mold making of all.  It is used most commonly in large forms such as ship hulls.  It is too labor intensive to be considered a high production technology.  Fiberglass or some other composite material is laid into an open mold through pouring, spraying or brushing.  Air will be entrapped under the surface during this procedure and must be squeezed out with rollers in order to create a durable structure.  Candles are another item commonly made by this method.  The medium here will be heated, liquid wax which is simply poured into a mold in which a wick is centered or placed before the material hardens.

Designing Parts for Lay-Up Mold Making

Lay-Up Mold Making Work is made easier when the materials used contain catalysts that automatically trigger the curing process.  When the materials used are fiberglass, resins, or silicones, there is no need to use heat in the curing process or apply pressure.  The material will harden automatically.  In order to obtain a high luster finish, a painting gel is often applied after the surface has fully cured.  The object will now be suitable for applications of both paint and decals.  Fiberglass is a good choice for use in more complex molds since it can be laid easily into grooved and curved surface.  It is also strong, light in weight, and inexpensive.

Sourcing Lay-Up Mold Making

Lay-Up Mold Making Companies often are centered on providing the material needed to apply to the molds.  A good listing of the sort of products currently available on the market will be found here.  Other firms are devoted to providing materials to make the molds.  Balsa wood is favored by hobbyists who find the material easy to cut into shape.  In the case of candles, clay is the preferred medium with which to make molds. Such a store with knowledgeable staff can usually offer valuable tips for this sort of work.