How do you mix lightweight Hydrocal?
The mix ratio of Lightweight Hydrocal is 5 parts Hydrocal to 2 parts water (1 1/4 cups Hydrocal to 1/2 cup water).
How do you mix Hydrocal?
The mix ratio for use as a bore coating is approximately 1.5 (powder) :1 (water) by volume. The mix ratio for use as a high temperature (HT) reinforced coating is approximately 2.5 (powder) :1 (water) by volume. For slurry application, add powder to water and mix until desired consistency. Use the slurry immediately.
How long does Hydrocal take to dry?
If you want the plaster to be thoroughly cured before de-molding (for figurines, etc.), wait until it feels warmish and dry. This can take up to 24 hours or more for a thick surface.
Is Hydrocal stronger than plaster of Paris?
Hydrocal is much stronger than plaster of paris. It also takes lots more detail, and most of all does not ‘slough off’ like plaster of paris. That is important for a long life scenery base. The sloughing of plaster results in lots of dust and chips on a continuous basis.
What is the lightest plaster?
Perlite cement plaster
Perlite cement plaster is thermal and sound insulating, fire retardant, and extremely lightweight—weighing approximately 60% less than ordinary sand plaster. Perlite cement-based lightweight insulating plaster application in a 3,000-unit residential villa project.
What is the difference between Hydrocal and plaster of Paris?
Can you carve Hydrocal?
Ultracal, Plaster of Paris and the dozens of other plasters and gypsum cements all have their advantages and disadvantages. Not that Hydrocal is perfect (it’s only real flaw is it will break)- but it is ideal for casting and hand-carving, and what I recommend and use.
How hot does Hydrocal get?
120 °F
The maximum temperature at which USG Hydrocal White Gypsum Cement molds are safe from calcination is 120 °F (49 °C). With substantial free water in the mold, a higher drying temperature can be used without difficulty.
How hot can Hydrocal get?
Hydrocal molds can be heated at a maximum temperature of 120 °F.
What is the difference between Hydrocal and plaster?
How do you make lightweight plaster?
Determine the ratio of water to plaster you want to use. A 50-50 split will make the lightest weight plaster, while any mixture between 50 and 75 parts of water to 100 parts plaster will make a stronger mold. Use the scale to measure the plaster and water ratios, or you can use a measuring cup.
How hard is Hydrocal?
It is not for making outer or mother molds, and it is not recommended for outdoor use. Designed for strength and casting detail. Hydrocal is 30% to 40% harder than casting plaster and works much like plaster in mixing, pouring, and setting.
Is Hydrocal the same as plaster of Paris?
How strong is Hydrocal?
How strong is Hydrocal plaster?
Ideal for patterns, figurines, commercial casts, and sculpture. It is not for making outer or mother molds, and it is not recommended for outdoor use. Designed for strength and casting detail. Hydrocal is 30% to 40% harder than casting plaster and works much like plaster in mixing, pouring, and setting.
Is Hydrocal porous?
Hydrocal is really most like wood. It is a porous material so just about anything that works well with wood will work well with Hydrocal.