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Heat Curing and Post Curing

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FAQ:  What do the terms "heat curing" and "post curing" mean?

A: Heat Curing – can be used to accelerate the cure of polyurethane rubbers and plastics,  platinum silicone rubbers, epoxy resins and other materials.  For example, subjecting a urethane mold rubber mold to mild heat (150 F / 60 C) will reduce the cure time from 16 hours to around 4 hours.  Consult product technical bulletin for more information.

Post Curing –

Mold Making – Post curing any mold rubber will enhance the physical and performance properties of the mold rubber.  Procedure; following a normal cure cycle for a mold rubber (generally 16 to 24 hours), the cured mold can be exposed to mild heat 150 F / 60 C for 4 to 8 hours. 

Platinum Silicone Rubber – can be post cured at higher temperatures to increase the heat resistance of the mold resulting in longer mold life for casting pewter or other metals, for example.  Consult product technical bulletin prior to post curing.

Allow the mold rubber to cool to room temperature before using.

Do not use your kitchen oven.

Heat Lamps – can be used but often do not provide even heating.  Position as many heat lamps as necessary around the mold or casting to provide even heating.  Warning:  heat lamps can scorch or burn if not properly used.  Use with caution.

Tip: a 100 watt light bulb in a cardboard box may be all that you need to generate enough heat to do the job. 

Tip: If you live in a warm climate, you can use the sun to your advantage.  Position a broom handle between two chairs and place the mold under the broom handle.  Use a colored plastic sheet and make a “tent” over the mold.  Area under tent can reach 150 F / 60 C, depending on climate.  Caution;  use a tarp or covering that does not allow light to pass through to protect your mold against harmful ultra violet (UV) light.

Casting – Urethane Plastics - Post curing any urethane plastic will enhance the physical and performance properties of the plastic. 

Procedure: flat castings and simple shapes can be post cured outside of mold.  3-d or complicated shapes should be post cured in the rubber mold to prevent distortion.

Is there an inexpensive way to provide an alternative to an
industrial oven?  Sure!  You can build a HOT BOX.