Molding Frozen Specimens

[pdmd2911]

I have reviewed some older threads on this subject, but would like to know what silicone is currently the best for molding frozen subjects. I heard Silpak was pushing some for that purpose at the World show, but their website is bewildering and no online ordering.

[cutaway70]

call pete at preservation specialisties in MIchigan.  I am new to casting and molding and he has helped me out a lot.  Willing to take the time to explain when having a problem great service

[Mike B.]

You will need to use a tin based silicone, Silicone's Inc GI-1000 or GI-1100 would be a good choice you can get the from Pete at presevation specialist or give Innovative Polymers a call. You will also probably want to get some ultra fast catalyst to help speed the process along. especially molding something frozen.

[pdmd2911]

Thanks, I'll contact Pete.

[Kbear70]

Anyone know how to contact pete at preservation specialist, where they are located or a Number please let me know...Thanks Kirk

[Doug Bridges]

If you are doing a silicone mold of a frozen animal, I would point you towards some MoldStar 16 from Smooth-On. It has a 6 minute pot life and a 30 minute demold time. This is without having to use a fast catalyst type material. Of course, you will slow the cure rate down on the frozen animal due to temperature.

Kirk, I may have misunderstood  your pm. I was thinking you wanted to do a carcass casting. If that is the case, I would recommend using plaster to do the initial mold. Then make casting from foam and bondo. If you are wanting to make multiple castings, correct that foam cast using oil based clay and then make a more permanent mold using silicone and a support shell.
Maybe something good to discuss during a phone call. 8106562350

[saddlehorse_98]

I have reviewed some older threads on this subject, but would like to know what silicone is currently the best for molding frozen subjects. I heard Silpak was pushing some for that purpose at the World show, but their website is bewildering and no online ordering.

I had the same problem when I went to his sight, however I have spoke with pete a long time ago and he was great, but like what was suggested. I called scott and got what I needed and it was shipped quickly at that. very good guys to deal with here is his number hope it helps. and a catylist for GI1100 would be a must other wise all your material would run to the bottom of your work and need tons of coats.
Innovative Polymers Incorporated

208 Kuntz Street

St. Johns, MI 48879

Phone: (989) 224-9500

Fax: (989) 224-1400

http://www.innovative-polymers.com

[Ted Befus]

I have had success actually casting peices in the freezer with Mold-All and fast catalyst.  If you over catalyze it will set IN the freezer in less than 24 hours.

[Doug Bridges]

I always see people talking about using "Fast Catalyst". There is one important thing to remember with using fast cat, it weakens the silicone mold that you are making. By weakening, I mean it reduces the tear strength of the rubber. There are some catalysts that cause less of a reduction than others, but they all weaken the rubber to some degree. Please keep this in mind when using them. If you need a mold where deep undercuts exist or you need to really stretch the mold to remove the casting, then use catalysts with this in mind.