What type/mixture of Polypropylene do you think they are using to make these?
By NoobPlastics
Published: April 29th, 2010
Published: April 29th, 2010
Hello,
I have a very basic understanding of mold making but I am a tool and die maker so I have a machine background. My question is if anyone could help me figure out a good place to start to make something like this: http://images.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/coldsteel/images/92bkguard.jpg
This is a hobby for me and kind of a fledgling market that I would like to experiment in. There are some others making different qualities of these but I would like to stick to this solid one piece construction. They have to withstand numerous repeated blows without splintering or breaking. Mostly what I need are recomendations on what mix or product would get me close and I can experiment from there. Some links to actual products would be great I am kind of lost, there are so many different grades and mixes I could really use some help. Also if you think it would be possible to use recycled or regrind? Not even sure if thats the right wa to say it.
Thanks
Dave
PS Also how abrassive is polpropylene? What type of material would you suggest for the casting of this material?
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If these are practice swords
If these are practice swords and you don't mind the difference in weight here's what I'd suggest -
(1) Rotocast them with thick a wall stock, then fill the hollow interior with rigid foam. you could put a metal rod down the center for weight before adding the foam. Thick walls will resist the impact, the foam interior will give it better structure.
(2) Mold the sword in halves, hot plate weld them together and fill the hollow interior with a mixture of sand and polyurethane foam - the foam will provide a little additional adhesive strength, the sand will provide the weight. The problem with this method is that the joint may shatter under repeated hitting.
If this is a hobby and you don't have the equipment, don't even think about making these. getting to the manufacturing of these requires expensive equipment. You can have them made at a manufacturer.
OR
Do what has been done for centuries and use oak.