There is nothing worse than having a beautiful wax mold release that unfortunately sticks to its housing and damages the structural integrity of the molded object. In some instances, the housing can get damaged due to the pressure of a molded object being released.

This can cause you unnecessary time and money. Mold releases come in a wide range of different types that have been created to ensure that this does not occur whilst also leaving you with a stronger and more reliable molded object.

Epoxy mold release is one of the best solutions for certain mold types and can greatly increase the likelihood of a successful mold production process.

What is an Epoxy Mold Release?

An epoxy mold release agent is specifically created to aid in the molding process which comes with a range of advantages. This mold release agent is a non-silicate-based agent which forms a protective layer that prevents thermosetting materials as well as epoxies from sticking to and bonding with the mold housing.

It has many different uses and is also effective on most forms of plastic and metal. This form of mold release provides an effective means to carefully remove the mold from its housing without causing any additional damage that may unfortunately arise without the use of a mold release agent.

Types of Epoxy Mold Releases

There is a wide range of epoxy mold release agents and release sprays. There are three main types of epoxy release agents that we will discuss in this guide. These mold releases all serve the same function, that being to assist in the removal of a molded object from its housing.

Although they serve the same purpose, each one is specially designed for various different needs and functions slightly different from one another. Let’s have a closer look at these mold releases and how they work.

Silicone Mold Releases

A silicone mold release is a release agent that is sacrificial in nature. This means that it serves to separate a molding object from its housing whilst also sustaining the damage that either the housing or the molded object would have sustained. This mold release works best in specifically releasing sand cores from metal tooling. 

Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly is another common chemical agent and effective means of releasing various different mold objects from their housing. It is a creamy, odorless, and half-solid substance that provides lubrication between the mold and the housing.

This offers a clean removal that is best used for silicon-to-silicon molds, latex, and detailed molds.

Mica Powder

Mica powder is an extra-fine powdered form of release agent that is applied to the housing. This powder ensures that the two-part mold is adequately lubricated and can be efficiently removed from the housing once the mold has been set.

Best Practices for Using Epoxy Mold Release

When you are utilizing an epoxy mold release coating, it is essential to always follow the best practices required that ensures an effective and stable mold release. Following these practices is a great way to use an epoxy mold release to its optimal potential and lower the chances of the mold or its housing being damaged or destroyed.

Let’s have a closer look at some of these best practices and how they can assist your molding process.

Documentation and Procedures for Usage

Every molding release agent is different from one another. The method of release depends on the product used. Following the correct usage and documentation for each product is an essential means of going about the removal from the molding process.

For example, Mica powder needs to be specially added to the mold housing via a dusting process. Each procedure, application process, and method of release depends on the product that has been chosen so understanding its intricate requirements is the best way toward utilizing it in the correct manner.

Cleaning the Mold Surfaces Before Applying Release Agent

Before applying the release agent, it is imperative that the housing surface is adequately cleaned. This is to ensure that the release agent does not negatively react to the residual dirt/substances, whilst also providing a thorough release surface of lubrication for the molded object to be removed.

Applying the Right Amount of Release Agent to the Surface Area

Applying the correct amount of release agent to the surface area ensures that the mold is perfectly made and does not suffer any unforeseen impurities. A good example of this would be the use of petroleum jelly.

Utilizing an uneven amount of the release agent in a specific spot may affect the shape and function of the mold whilst also making it more difficult to remove in some cases. Applying too little of the release agent may cause the mold to still stick to the housing in certain areas and could compromise the entire procedure.

Get Premium Quality Epoxy Mold Releases from Plastic Materials, Inc.

Epoxy mold releases are there to ensure that your molding process is quick, seamless, and effective. With a premium-quality epoxy mold release, your production process can drastically increase.

We are a supplier that has assisted hundreds of customers with their many supply needs by ensuring that its products are always of the highest possible quality. Partnering with the right supplier is the first step toward a successful production process. If you want to know the answer to the question, what is a good release agent for epoxy, get in touch with our team at 909-923-6563 at Plastic Material, Inc., or browse the online store to find the premium quality supplier that can meet your needs.