Degreasing Importance
Degreasing is the step most often skipped by new Plastiform users, and it is the step most likely to ruin an impression.
It’s the MOST IMPORTANT step in impression taking as it directly affect the chemical reaction.
Every application must start with a clean, degreased surface. There are no exceptions.
Every degreaser are not compatible with Plastiform, we have a dedicate list of validated products that works, please use any of those products.
Acetone is INCOMPATIBLE with Plastiform. Do not use it before an impression, it will prevent the product from curing.
Why Degreasing Is Mandatory
Plastiform cures through a chemical reaction between base and catalyst. If the surface contains oil, grease, cutting fluid, or even fingerprints traces, the reaction is disrupted.
In case of bad degreasing, the result might look like:
- Incomplete curing. The impression remains tacky or soft in spots.
- Poor surface replication. Details are blurred or missing.
- Loss of adhesion to the part. The impression separates from the surface during curing, creating voids or bubbles.
The incomplete curing is the most common issue referenced.
Validated Degreasers
You can pick any of those degreaser for use before making an impression :
- DN1 Kristal
- ECS Contact Cleaner
- WD-40 Contact Cleaner
How to Apply the Degreaser
- Spray or wipe it onto the area to be impressed.
- Let it air dry, do not wipe it with a tissue.
- Inspect the surface. It should look clean and dull, with no visible streaks or oily patches.
- Apply Plastiform immediately after drying. Do not touch the cleaned area with bare fingers.
Do not skip this step even if the part looks clean. Machining oils are often invisible to the eye but still present in sufficient quantity to block polymerization.
Be careful NOT TO apply Plastiform products if the degreaser is not completely evaporated.
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Skipping degreasing on “clean looking” parts | Incomplete cure, poor detail, distorted dimensions |
| Using a dirty cloth | Spreads contamination rather than removing it |
| Touching the surface after cleaning | Transfers skin oils back onto the area |
| Using a generic degreaser that leaves residue | Creates a new barrier between Plastiform and the surface |
| Applying Plastiform beforethe degreaser is fully dry | Trapped solvent interferes with curing |
| Using Acetone | Acetone prevent polymerization from happening |
When to Degrease Again
Degrease immediately before every impression.
Even if you degreased the part an hour ago, repeat the process. Dust, handling, and airborne contaminants accumulate quickly in workshop environments.
