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New softer plastic

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  • Member since
    November 2009
  • From: Twin Cities of Minnesota
New softer plastic
Posted by Don Stauffer on Monday, January 17, 2011 8:32 AM

Got a kit recently from eastern Europe mfg. It had a softer plastic, sort of like a cross between styrene and vinyl. I have heard others talking about this stuff. It is softer than normal cast styrene, and warps easier.  Because of its softness it is harder to align along longer seams (i.e, fuselage halves).  Also, it seems it has poorer adhesion with paints and glues.  Why are mfgs going to this stuff?

Don Stauffer in Minnesota

  • Member since
    August 2006
  • From: Neenah, WI
Posted by HawkeyeHobbies on Monday, January 17, 2011 8:37 AM

If its a short run kit, chances are the fit quality will be a major issue. As far as the plastics used, they probably opted for a softer blend to preserve the life of their short run molds.

More and more of the recycled plastic is making its way into industry...unfortunately it isn't conducive with many applications the product was designed for. I got a piece of equipment the other day which had a part made from this "green" plastic. The mfr already initiated a recall, sending replacement parts to consumers as they are learning this blend of plastic isn't performing as promised.  Simple enough fix, but an inconvenience and a cost the mfr wasn't planning on.

Gerald "Hawkeye" Voigt

http://hawkeyes-squawkbox.com/

 

 

"Its not the workbench that makes the model, it is the modeler at the workbench."

  • Member since
    February 2003
  • From: A Spartan in the Wolverine State
Posted by rjkplasticmod on Monday, January 17, 2011 8:39 AM

Probably two reasons.  One, it's cheaper.  Two, more compatible with the low pressure molding used by many short run kitters.

Regards,  Rick

RICK At My Age, I've Seen It All, Done It All, But I Don't Remember It All...
  • Member since
    March 2010
  • From: Winamac,Indiana 46996-1525
Posted by ACESES5 on Monday, January 17, 2011 3:16 PM

I've noticed this too Don it seams like the plastic gets real soft and mushey takes for ever for glue to dry.               ACESES5

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