I want to build a vacuum box to help me suck air from silicon gel while they are setting, how ever I don't know where to find such a device, and since I'm not trying to build a lab.., I'm not ready to pay big buck for a professional equipment .

However I found such a box, and wonder anybody try anything like this before?

http://www.vacuumsaver.com/new/photo&electronics_vacuumsaver_vam5101.htm

I will not use this with resin, since I think a compress box may be a better idea..., only silicon gel..., so, any advice?

OK.... one of these Can be converted. I Pressure cast. Even my molds... I use a converted tank.... and (for molds 60 PSI into it. for castings about 30-40 psi) it makes the Bubbles so small they almost don't show up. or so small you can see them. it's cheaper than a Vacuum pump especially if you have a Air Compressor.

More info feel free to PM me.

Matt

thank you for your advice,

I have a few questions,since I dont have many experenice with pressure casting.

Do I really need a metal tank to do this? I think casting did not need as hi pressure as some of those tank originally design for. I wonder if some polythene can do the same job.., and they're transparent.

And for pressure cast molds, after depressure, wont the bubbles expand? (silicon gel is not hard enough even they are set..I think)

HZ

I haven't had a problem with the bubbles re-exapanding. I did try to convert an .50 cal Ammo can tor this use but the metal was just too thin. I guess you'd need to see if you can find a pressure rating on the Plastic tank. If you could find some Larger Diameter 8 to 10" PVC pipe & Fittings you could make it that way too. it's all of the pressure ratings with a Safety factor.

Vacuum pumps can be $$$$ that's why I Opted for pressure casting. I had a compressor and Acess to all the fittings. I fot a Used Paint tank On Ebay for like 30 bucks...........

HTH

Matt

Ok, thank you for your help matt, I will try both ways.

Have a nice day!

No Problem...... If ya have more Questions... just post them here........