Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community - View Single Post - Working with Carbon Fiber (and other composites)

xepherys · 07-04-2007, 09:17 AM

Well, I plan mostly to learn by replacing plastic shells for things like game controllers and systems or making a computer case. I'd like to make molds from the original items. What material works best for molds for composites? I usually make molds out of plaster or clay, but I'm not sure if either is well suited for composites.

Also, once the mold is made and the lay-up is done, how much can you work with the surface? I understand that you want to use a fine sandpaper on it then use a spray clearcoat to make it look professional. If additional mild shaping is needed, can you use heavier sandpaper? I know thinning it makes it weaker, but I don't need these to be terribly tough, just nice looking mostly (and a little stronger than plastic).

Thanks!

07-04-2007, 09:17 AM	#3 (permalink)
xepherys <3 TFP Location: 17TLH2445607250	Well, I plan mostly to learn by replacing plastic shells for things like game controllers and systems or making a computer case. I'd like to make molds from the original items. What material works best for molds for composites? I usually make molds out of plaster or clay, but I'm not sure if either is well suited for composites. Also, once the mold is made and the lay-up is done, how much can you work with the surface? I understand that you want to use a fine sandpaper on it then use a spray clearcoat to make it look professional. If additional mild shaping is needed, can you use heavier sandpaper? I know thinning it makes it weaker, but I don't need these to be terribly tough, just nice looking mostly (and a little stronger than plastic). Thanks! __________________ The prospect of achieving a peace agreement with the extremist group of MILF is almost impossible... -- Emmanuel Pinol, Governor of Cotobato My Homepage