Reinforcing thin resin?

[davehal9000]

Not a modeling issue but related... I build insignias for plaques, military subjects, and have issues with them breaking. Was originally using fiberglass resin, no glass, to save on cost. Haven't had problems with the Smooth-on resin I've tried lately.

That said, is there a preferred way to reinforce the resin, or, an affordable and easy to use resin that's durable without reinforcement? Prefer one that doesn't require exact measurements in mixing ratios, mold release, etc.

[TazMan2000]

Bug screen. Metal mesh preferred. But if it's sold on a roll, it might be difficult getting the memory out of it before you dip it in resin.

TazMan2000

[kenlilly106]

They make fiberglass chopped strands Link that are mixed in with the resin to act as a reinforcement when you can't use cloth.

I don't know how we'll they'll do if a nice surface finish is needed, I've only seem them used as a backer to the fiberglass gel coat or behind another surface.

[DaveVan]

5 minute epoxy is good. Strong, easy and somewhat flexible.

[davehal9000]

Of the resins out there, preferably Smooth-on, any more durable than others? Am envisioning making refrigerator magnets and kids dropping them.

[Kylwell]

Pretty much any mesh, even cheese cloth, will help reinforce things. You can go gonzo and use carbon fiber cloth, even wire cloth. The big trick is a thin layer of gel, let partially harden, then lay in the cloth and cover with more resin. This stops the cloth from poking through onto the surface.

[davehal9000]

Have a casting that is a year or two old that warped on me. Any way to prevent this on future projects? Is it a matter of the resin not being thick enough?

[TazMan2000]

Drill and pin with brass. Use epoxy in the hole to ensure you get good resin to brass/epoxy contact. Use the thickest brass rod that can reasonably fit in the hole. Be careful when you drill. The bit will want to go in the oath with the least resistance, like bubbles and the outside wall. Best to start out with the thin drill bits and then work up.

TazMan2000

[Blappy]

The Smooth-On "Task" series or resins are much stronger than their regular casting resins. I'd recommend checking those spec sheets for more info.