Hoben International Logo

Guide to Good Investment Casting Techniques

Although every effort has been made to verify the suitability of these recommendations, no warranty can be expressed or implied.

MOLD RUBBER PROBLEMS

PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY
Cut mould does not seal evenly (warping). Rubber used in packing has begun to vulcanize. Use new rubber.
Mould under packed. Use sufficient rubber. Close platens down so they are in contact with the mould frame.
Mould over packed. Review mould packing procedure.
Lay strips in same direction, invisible grain.
Voids in mould (air entrapment). Model not filled in with rubber Pack Rubber pieces into and around model.
Platten not at curing temperature. Preheat vulcanizer to 155ºC.
Mould not cured for recommended time. Tighten vulcanizer ½ turn past first resistance. Repeat every two minutes until platens are in contact with frame and handle cannot be turned withou resistance.
Allow 15 minutes at 155ºC for every 6mm. For intricate moulds allow 20 minutes at 145ºC for every 6mm.
Mould delaminates after curing. Surface of strips not clean. Use new strips. Do not contaminate surfaces with hands and protect from extraneous dirt or dust.
Mould soft and sticky in centre. Under heated. Check temperature of platens.
Cure cycle too short Cure for 15 minutes for every 6mm.
Mould has pebbly surface.
Mould is sticky and scorched.
Excessive shrinkage. Lack of flexibility.
Over heated. Check Calibration of vulcanizer.

Hoben International Home Page Casting Problems Wax Pattern Problems
Page address http://www.teg.co.uk/teg/hoben/moldprob.html
Last Updated 30th April 1997

This page is produced & managed by The Electronic Guide
© 1997 Hoben International Ltd SMail Spencroft Road, Holditch Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, UK ST5 9JE Fone No +44 (0) 1782 622 285
Fax No +44 (0) 1782 636 982 E-Mail hoben@teg.co.uk