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Hydrocal is a US Gypsum product composed mainly of plaster of Paris and a small amount of Portland cement. Hydrocal, like its similar formulas Hydrostone, Ultracal, Duracal and others are all used for casting sculptures and other art objects as well as molds.
What is Hydrocal?
Hydrocal White is a multi-purpose gypsum cement ideal for both solid and hollow casting of lamp bases and figurines. Designed for thin sections, its high green strength minimizes breakage during removal from the most intricate molds.
Is Hydrocal the same as plaster of Paris?
Hydrocal is much stronger than plaster of paris. It also takes lots more detail, and most of all does not ‘slough off’ like plaster of paris. That is important for a long life scenery base. The sloughing of plaster results in lots of dust and chips on a continuous basis.
What happens if you eat Gypsum?
It may lead to a mechanical obstruction of the gut, especially the pyloric region, and could manifest with abdominal pain, epigastric distress, nausea, vomiting, and fullness.
Does Hydrocal expand?
USG White Hydrocal® Gypsum Cement : Offering twice the compressive strength of plaster, it is especially suitable in thin, delicate sections where high green strength is required. Offers long workability; setting expansion twice that of molding plaster and pottery plaster.
How long does Ultracal take to set?
ULTRACAL 30 Set Time is 25-35 minutes. De-Mold Time 60-80 minutes. Mix Ratio: 38 parts water to 100 parts plaster.
What is the strongest casting plaster?
Casting Materials Our Prestia Classic Plaster is a very fine and fast setting dental plaster, our Basic Alpha Plaster is both dense and strong which can be used in combination with plaster polymer and the Modell Plaster is our hardest casting plaster which produces castings that are very finely detailed and strong.
Is plaster stronger than clay?
Often when plaster is made from alpha gypsum and is stronger, but it is less porous. Because it’s less porous, it takes longer to absorb liquid from clay. It also takes longer for the mold to dry out after it’s been used. However, #1 pottery plaster has the advantage of being both strong and absorbent.
What is the difference between Hydrocal and Ultracal?
Ultracal 30 is more dense and harder than Hydrocal and is advertised by USG as a tool making plaster. Hydrocal is a casting plaster that hold detail well. Hydrocal is easier to work with post casting for corrections. Ultracal is more durable.
What is the hardest type of plaster?
PURITAN POTTERY PLASTER – Unique, specially designed for use with mechanical clay forming machinery. Absolutely the hardest, most wear-resistant plaster made for molds, and a favorite for jiggering molds. STATUARY HYDROCAL – A basic HYDROCAL cement with a lower use consistency of about 40 lbs. of water per 100 lbs.
What can I mix with plaster to make it stronger?
How can I make plaster of Paris stronger?
- Step 2: Mix Water and Glue. Place 1 1/4-cup water in a plastic mixing bowl. Add 1/4-cup white glue to the water.
- Step 3: Add the Plaster. Slowly pour 2 cups of plaster of Paris into the water.
- Step 4: Rest and Mix. Let the plaster rest for about five minutes before mixing.
Can Hydrocal get wet?
Allow soaking for 1-2 minutes. HYDROCAL Brand White Gypsum Cement should be fully dispersed in the water prior to mixing.Technical Properties.
| Technical Properties | English | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Compressive Strength | 5,000 psi | 34.5 MN/m2 |
| Maximum Setting Expansion | 0.390% | 0.390% |
| Density | ||
| Wet | 110.0 lb/ft3 | 1.76 g/cm3 |
Is hydrostone waterproof?
Re: Hydrostone/Hydrocal/Polymer gypsum It pours and looks like plaster, but is weatherproof and fireproof and one of my friends has had a large geobond sculpture out here in the Sonoran desert for 5 years with no sign of damage. It has actually been used by NASA for the flooring of rocket staging.
How long does hydrostone take to dry?
25-35 min. *Other set times may also be available.
Is Gypsum harmful to humans?
Hazards of Using Gypsum If handled improperly, gypsum can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, mucous membranes and the upper respiratory system. Symptoms of irritation can include nosebleeds, rhinorrhea (discharge of thin mucous), coughing and sneezing. If ingested, gypsum can clog the gastrointestinal tract.
What is Hydrocal made of?
Hydrocal is mainly composed of plaster of Paris and a small amount of Portland cement. It has a similar formula as hydrostone, duracal, and ultracal. They are all used for casting sculptures and well as making art objects and molds.
Will plaster of paris be OK outside?
Plaster of Paris is an extremely porous material when dried, and as such, will absorb any new water that touches its surface. In order to waterproof plaster of Paris for outdoor use or for temporary exposure to water, you must fill in as many surface pores as possible.
How long does Hydrocal take to cure?
Sift or strew HYDROCAL Brand White Gypsum Cement into water slowly and evenly. Do not drop handfuls of HYDROCAL Brand White Gypsum Cement directly into the water. Allow soaking for 1-2 minutes.How Long Does Hydrocal Take To Cure?
| Technical Properties | English | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Set Time (Machine Mix)* | 25-35 min. | 25-35 min. |
Will plaster of Paris last outside?
Plaster of Paris left unprotected in outdoor conditions will deteriorate fast. Use of paint on the plaster of Paris will help prevent the deterioration somewhat. The way forward is to use a water seal and use at least two layers of plaster of Paris one on top of the other.
What can Gypsum be used for?
Gypsum is widely used to manufacture wallboards that are used to cover walls and ceilings. It’s also used to make plaster which is used in the construction of homes as well as mixed into a patching compound for wallboard repair.
Why is gypsum dangerous?
There are no long term adverse medical effects from ingestion of gypsum. If ingested, wash out the mouth and drink plenty of water. Plaster powders/dust potentially may irritate eyes or sensitive skin or irritate the respiratory system. Any effects should be short term.
Can Hydrocal be used outdoors?
It is not for making outer or mother molds, and it is not recommended for outdoor use. Designed for strength and casting detail. Hydrostone is 40% to 50% harder than casting plaster and works much like plaster in mixing, pouring, and setting.
What is the difference between Hydrocal and hydrostone?
Hydrocal – Ideal for casting lifecast faces, heads, and torsos from alginate molds. Hydrostone – Great for casting statuary and lifecasts such as hands.
