Thread: Vacuum&pressure pot experiments

Yup, looks good from my house too

Thanks gents.
Feels better under hand for sure..That's what matters.

Wasn't sure if I'd get to this wish list project before the knots arrived but decided to dig in and get it done.
In line with the casting and alumilite projects, I wanted to try to replicate the rubbersets 3, or 4 handle styles. Seeing as how I have one of each currently waiting their new shavemac knots, I decided to mold them both up to increase my chances at a good result.

Built up a clay base to about the centre line

I am planning the parting lines such that they split up the flutes, but circle the logo so the parting line at the base hugs the radius instead of dissecting the trademark stamp.


Loads of registration and index points added to ensure a tight mate up of the two halves of the molds. I also decided to fill the knot end and drill them out after molding. I thought about making them hollow in the molds, but that's a lot of undercutting and areas air can get trapped. This way the molds 'should' self evacuate as I fill them.

Using a lb of silicon mold per half, slightly more than needed but a thicker mold might last longer in service.
Ran the mixed silicone in the vacuum pot for a while to ensure all the air was out since this mold will be cast in a pressure pot later. Can't be any air trapped in there.

And finally the pour.

And after final gassing.

Now, let it cure over night and flip it over, remove the clay and do the other half.
Hope it works out ok, this mold making stuff is pricey, but being able to pour exact rubbersets would be pretty cool.
Use some of those alumilite metal powders and make replicas in bronze, silver, or aluminum shades..also transparent might be cool..
Cheers men, late night mischief while I'm on vacation..

Great work Mike, I'm looking forward to seeing the end result.

Very cool project, Mike. Seems like they should turn out awesome