by dahlberg » Wed Jan 04, 2012 4:27 pm
Hi smokey
I've used quick set, mold putty and both high strength 2 and 3 for pouring jigs and they all hold up to pouring hot lead or pewter. That being said, when pouring with lead I like my mold to be very firm so I can clamp it securely without deforming it and also for safety, as the lead might find its way out of the seams of flexible mold, especially if the walls are thin.
The mold putty will give you the longest life but the least detail, and is not good for small heads. High Strength 2 is the next best choice.
I've got molds that are at least 8 years old that I've poured dozens and dozens of parts with and they're still fine.
After several pours and elapsed time the molds get a little "dry", at which time a light coating of silicone oil seems to freshen them up.iI t
How big are the jigs you want to pour? What shape? If they are huge, like approaching a half pound, I suggest you'll have better results using putty and doing an open back style mold.
best,
L
Larry Dahlberg
The Hunt For Big Fish