Vacuum casting (RTV moulding) of clear parts

There are grades of PU that are clear and as such this process can be used to produce transparent components.

The two critical issues are the material selection and the surface finishing of the master pattern used to create the silicone mould.

This method of reproduction is very good at picking out small features and as such imperfections in the surface finishing of the master will be reproduced in the PU and detract dramatically from the clarity. Thus if clear parts are desired, the master pattern should be finished to a high gloss over the desired areas, and these areas communicated to the supplier in advance so that they are not compromised by the tool configuration.

For more information, please contact:  stefan@smartprototype.net