invention manufacturing problem
invention manufacturing problem
(OP)
Aloha everyone. I have a product that I would like to produce myself initially so that the testing/evaluation can be done privately. I have a so-so prototype, but would like to make this closer to the finished product. My question is this- are there any reasonable ways to mold plastic at home? With a small amount of assistance, I am certain that I could make this at home. Expensive solutions are not an option yet. Thanks to all who respond.






RE: invention manufacturing problem
Molding gets a little more serious, since you need a mold. You will need to use a liquid resin that can be poured and that has either a catalytic (two part mixture) or heat induced cure. Common resins are urethane, which has grades that can be quite hard; polyester, such as in fiberglass boats - you might find this locally available right there in Kansas :); and finally there would be epoxy resins, the strongest. Glass fibers could be added to any of these to increase strength. Be careful of the fumes, particularly with urethane.
RE: invention manufacturing problem
RE: invention manufacturing problem
It's hard to tell, from your description, how large your product is.
If it's on the larger side you may want to considder fabricating in from a thermoplastic like CH2 (polyerithyne).
You can weld it fairly easily with a gass touch if your on a budget or you can buy a hot air or ultra sonic welder.
If you want an impact resistant artical that you can clean up/model with a knife easily go for a low density grade.
High dencity on the other hand is harder, more brittle and slightly more challenging to weld.
If you want to make a showpiece of it. When you are finnished you can gloss the surface with a quick intence blast of heat. This will melt the very surface and remove many of the filemarks/weld marks and give you a radiussed glossy look.
Note: I am recoveering from a head injury sorry 'bout the spelling
best of luck
Myles
RE: invention manufacturing problem
RE: invention manufacturing problem
They describe some mold making techniques and other how-to info.