Crash Moulding
This is a simple alternative to vacuum forming. Many shapes can be
copied or created by using this method.
Below, I will show how to use crash moulding to make a copy of a
canopy. For this example, I used the canopy from the 1/72 Dragon Ta152 kit.
Step 1. Fill the canopy with Miliput (or plaster) and mount it on a
rod. This is now a male mould.
Step 2. Hold the mould upright. In this picture, I used a vice-pliers
to hold it.
Step 3. Take a piece of clear sheet (available from many on-line
retailers, packaging, etc.) and secure it at each end with office clamps. These
will serve as handles. Heat the clear sheet slowly and carefully over a candle.
Make sure the plastic softens evenly without yellowing.
Step 4. Draw the warm, soft clear sheet over the mould.
Step 5. After it cools, separate the clear sheet from the mould.
Trim to size. That is all.
Below are a few examples of parts made by using this method:
Hawker Hurricane landing lights.
Ki61 wheel wells.
Ki61 seat
© Radu Brinzan 2006