There’s a lot that can go wrong with molds - like using the wrong materials, working at the wrong temperature and so on. Here, we examine the reasons that can cause molds to turn out leaky during the casting.

Molds form the base for making castings. Think of a mold as a negative impression of a master –the surface details are captured in the interior of the mold and can then be reproduced as is in the casting.

There are different types of molds – like one part and two part molds. The molds can be made using different materials and varied techniques. The options vary depending on a range of factors, yet there are some common issues that prove to be common amongst all kinds of molds!

Some of the mistakes can be attributed to simple lack of awareness while many others result from sheer negligence and imprecision in the working.

Many a times it may happen that the mold turns out to be leaky during the casting phase. The artist can be at his/her wit’s end trying to figure out why the casting material is seeping out from the mold. This renders the mold unusable and the mold maker has to start from scratch again. But what is the use if the mold starts leaking again? It just becomes a waste of precious time and effort, not to mention squandering of materials.

What to do to check leaking mold fails?

• It is better to nip the problem in the bud in the mold making stage itself. Finish the mold properly by closing the seams and corners. Use a sealant, or even dry clay can work when in a pinch.
• Ensure that the mold has cured properly before moving on to the casting. At times, the mold may feel dry to the touch, but it may not have cured properly on the inside. When a casting material is poured into such molds, it may prove unable to retain the liquid contents in their entirety.
• At times, the mold and casting materials may prove incompatible which may also create a mess at the casting stage. For instance, wet clay does not work well with additive silicone or polyurethane and can cause problems during the casting.
• Needless to say, using clamps and straps is also necessary in many cases to prevent the casting material from leaking from the mold.

Where to turn?

When in a bind over anything to do with how to make molds, EnvironMolds can prove to be a savior in every sense of the word. The art supplier does not limit itself to providing quality materials, supplies, tools and equipment. The brand is passionate about everything to do with mold making, casting and life casting. They are more than open to queries and willingly offer assistance and guidance to anyone who approaches them. The website https://www.artmolds.com/ is also replete with simple tips and tricks that can make a world of difference to the quality of the final casting!