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Suggestion for topic

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jwb
  • Member since
    February 2006
  • From: Parkton, NC
Suggestion for topic
Posted by jwb on Thursday, November 9, 2006 8:45 PM

I've only been a regular reader since February, so if this has been covered, please forgive me.

I've always wondered how are kits actually made? I mean, the whole process- how are the designs made? How are molds made? What do molds actually look like? I've read a few explanations, but it might be neat to see how it's done "FSM style"!

Thanks!

Jon Bius

AgapeModels.com- Modeling with a Higher purpose

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, November 9, 2006 10:32 PM

Hey, I would like to know to. WOuld be intresting.

Will

  • Member since
    March 2006
  • From: Boyertown, PA, USA
Posted by Dubau on Friday, November 10, 2006 6:55 AM

I worked for a Co. that makes small plastic parts for things. We used molds with melted plastic and I know that's the same way kits are done. It was an OK job "3rd Shift" 25 some odd years ago  hehe

But was that would be cool to see

Bud

" You've experienced a set back, and without set backs and learning how to fix them you'll never make the leap from kit builder to modeler "
  • Member since
    July 2013
Posted by DURR on Sunday, November 12, 2006 12:37 PM
great idea fsm could do it over 3-6 issues 1-2 pages per. go to say acc.min.(they are said to be a friendly company) do it in sections   ie: research, marketing ,manufacturing, instruction writing and so on.
jwb
  • Member since
    February 2006
  • From: Parkton, NC
Posted by jwb on Sunday, November 12, 2006 1:38 PM

Yeah, that would be cool DURR. I think it's just fascinating- following a kit from the "Hey, let's sell a.... whatever" all the way to me walking into the LHS and plunking down some dollars for it.

I've always wondered how much test building is done? How are molds made? Who researches stuff like the markings and decals?

Heck- that could practically be a book. Wink [;)] 

Jon Bius

AgapeModels.com- Modeling with a Higher purpose

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

  • Member since
    August 2006
  • From: Oromocto, Canada
Posted by Gun Tech on Sunday, November 12, 2006 7:52 PM
That would be so awesome! And very informative. By knowing how the kit is made, you understand the what and why of it.Why is there a seam line there.......  why not in one part.... ect...

Jean-Michel    "Arte et Marte"

Moderator
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • From: USA
Posted by Matthew Usher on Monday, November 13, 2006 9:38 AM
It's a good idea, and it's one we did a story on a few years ago. The problem at this point would be the fact that very little molding is done in the United States anymore. It'd be tough, but it's clearly a good story that's worth revisiting. Matt @ FSM
  • Member since
    March 2006
  • From: Drummondville, Quebec, Canada
Posted by Yann Solo on Monday, November 13, 2006 10:11 AM

 Matthew Usher wrote:
It's a good idea, and it's one we did a story on a few years ago. The problem at this point would be the fact that very little molding is done in the United States anymore. It'd be tough, but it's clearly a good story that's worth revisiting. Matt @ FSM

Well, that's a good opportunity for you to make a trip to Asia then!Wink [;)]

No matter where you go ....... there you are.
  • Member since
    November 2005
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, November 16, 2006 9:44 AM

Dear Jon B.

I am sending this from Mexico, I am fascinated too for plastic models manufacturing.

I was a cottage manufacturer (short run mfg.) of vacuform and resin models some years ago, but nowadays I want to manufacture injection models, I have some machines, the process is not high tech. but is necessary some equipment.

I think is good idea to see in FSM some articles about model manufacturing.

10-15 years ago in FSM was published an article about the subject

greetings from Mexico.  your friend, juan.

  • Member since
    December 2002
  • From: Modeling anything with "MARINES" on the side.
Posted by AH1Wsnake on Sunday, November 19, 2006 12:54 AM

Agreed. I think that is an excellent idea.

I'd really like to learn what all goes in to the styrene-injection process, how they decide what kits to market, how the molds are done, etc.

 

 

"There are only two kinds of people that understand Marines: Marines and those who have met them in battle. Everyone else has a second-hand opinion."
  • Member since
    June 2006
  • From: Wendell, NC, USA
Posted by redd_34 on Sunday, November 19, 2006 5:16 AM
Inquiring minds want to know!  I do too!!
Don't worry about it!
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