Does modeling clay need release agent?

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#1

Hi!
I´m using modeling clay as a flange material for making a fiberglass mould on top.
Will it stick to the gelcoat? Or release agent is necessary?

Thanks

#2

I don’t use a release agent. The clay will stick to the piece slightly but cleans off easily. I clean it off with a wooden knife then a rag wet with laquer thinner. Works well.

#3

I´m not worried with the part. that i know it won´t stick. I´m worried with the vinilester gelcoat that i will use to make the fiberglass mould :S

#4

No it will not stick. Clay is great for filling in any cracks and crevices and won’t really stick. You just clean it out with something soft and use some acetone/IPA and a rag.

#5

i gave up the idea. When the clay gets hard it comes off the part :frowning:

#6

Are you talking about plasticine or DAS type of clay?

#7

DAS?
not plasticine. Modeling clay. Don´t know the exact name in english

#8

Are you using an air dry clay? Does it set hard?
You want a non-hardening clay like Plasticine. Ro Yale and Sammymatik are talking about plasticine.

#9

Yes it sets hard after a few minutes. But i think it´s the wrong material for the job. I used some filleting wax as i didn´t have any plasticine here. Small flange (if it can be called a flange) but enough to get the mould of the part without getting stuck :slight_smile:

#10

Plasticine is a necessity in any composites workshop. Get a couple of kilos. It is very cheap.

#11

I bought the clay modeling because the plasticine was out of stock and I was in a hurry.
But i will buy as soon as possible as I have a bucket seat to make and i can´t see a way of making rigid flanges on that

Thanks for all the answers

#12

Yes, you have to apply some release agent, wax and pva, I´d recommend.

#13

i have heard vaseline