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In 3D printing of PLA molds for slip casting (especially case molds from which working molds are directly made), warping of the print is a constant problem. During printing, corners can pull up and away from the print bed (often after hours of printing). This drawing shows how slotted side rails enable sliding the mold in (this is the base of a bottle shape). The slots hold it straight. These slots also prevent the plaster from migrating around the edge and getting underneath. And they lift the print off the table enough to permit clip inserts in the holes (they hold embeds for natches in place). Notice that I have made a 1.6mm slot for a 1.2 mm mold - this was needed because the slicer has to insert printed support in the slot, this creates imprecise geometry and issues with assembly. The extra allowance assures trouble-free use (you may find it necessary to adjust this a little.
These 3D prints slide into slotted side rails for each pouring of plaster. Since the plaster releases easily it is possible to use these multiple times. This method is suitable for prototyping in larger quantities than prints that integrate rails. These are printed on edge so print times are drastically reduced and surface smoothness is much better. This version has a bottom piece eliminating the seam across the base. It also enables putting embossed logos on the base. The holes enable mounting flush embeds - making it possible to sand the mating surfaces flat before gluing in the natches. The three-piece mold produced is shown on the bottom.
Glossary |
Side Rails
Side rails are the containment used when pouring plaster molds. We 3D-print these to custom fit each mold. |
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