Ethan Clarke
Plastic model kits are a fun and rewarding hobby for people of all ages. They allow you to recreate detailed, scaled models of real-life or fictional items. With the evolution of technology, the latest model kits are of the highest quality, offering more intricate details and moulding. When it comes to choosing the best plastic for modelling, the most popular options are ABS, polystyrene, and PETG. The choice depends on the specific requirements of your project and the available processing options. Polystyrene, for instance, is widely used due to its low cost, ease of processing, and crystal-clear natural form, while ABS offers superior impact resistance and can be easily glued and painted.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Type | ABS, Polystyrene, PETG |
| Deformability | Simple |
| Corrosion | Resistant |
| Processing | Easy |
| Stability | High |
| Impact Strength | High |
| Weight | Low |
| Thermoforming Temperature | Polystyrene: Low; ABS: Above 130°C |
| Impact Resistance | ABS: High |
| Petrol and Oil Resistance | ABS: Good |
| Temperature Resistance | ABS: Just under 100°C |
| Glue and Paint | ABS: Good |
| Density | ABS: 1.06 g/cm |
| Transparency | Polystyrene: Crystal clear; ABS: Milky, cloudy |
| Brittleness | Polystyrene: Extremely brittle |
| Thickness | Polystyrene: Not suitable below 2mm |
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What You'll Learn
- ABS plastic is impact-resistant, easy to glue and paint, and ideal for moving parts
- Polystyrene is cheap, easy to shape, and crystal clear, but brittle
- PETG is recommended for applications where thin plastic is required
- Plastic sheets should be dried before use to avoid moisture issues
- Surfaces should be cleaned with alcohol before gluing or painting
ABS plastic is impact-resistant, easy to glue and paint, and ideal for moving parts
When it comes to choosing the best plastic for modelling, several factors come into play, including deformability, corrosion resistance, processing ease, stability, impact strength, and weight. ABS plastic stands out as a versatile and durable option that checks many of these boxes.
ABS plastic, short for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is known for its exceptional impact resistance. This quality makes it ideal for creating models that need to withstand impacts, such as vehicles, ships, aircraft, tanks, or excavators. The impact resistance of ABS plastic can be attributed to its composition of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene monomers. Acrylonitrile provides chemical and heat resistance, butadiene contributes toughness and impact resistance, while styrene adds rigidity. By adjusting the composition, the properties of ABS can be tailored to specific needs, making it a versatile choice for modellers.
Another advantage of ABS plastic is its ease of gluing and painting. ABS can be glued effectively using a variety of adhesives, including cyanoacrylates, 2-part epoxies, structural acrylics, and UV-curable adhesives. The choice of adhesive depends on specific requirements, such as solvent or temperature resistance. Unlike some other plastics, ABS has a higher surface energy, making it easier to glue. Additionally, ABS can be painted with common acrylic paints, commonly used in model making, without the need for extensive pre-treatment. However, it is recommended to clean the surface with alcohol before painting to achieve the best results.
ABS plastic is also ideal for creating moving parts in models. Its impact resistance and durability make it less prone to fatigue failure, ensuring that the models can withstand repeated movements without breaking. This characteristic is particularly useful for models that require functional elements, such as opening doors or rotating parts.
In summary, ABS plastic is a top choice for modelling due to its impact resistance, ease of gluing and painting, and suitability for moving parts. Its versatility, durability, and processability make it a preferred option for both hobbyists and professionals in the modelling community.
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Polystyrene is cheap, easy to shape, and crystal clear, but brittle
Polystyrene is a commonly used plastic for modelling. It is a synthetic polymer made from the monomers of the aromatic hydrocarbon styrene. It is inexpensive, easy to process and shape, and has excellent transparency. However, polystyrene is also brittle, and thin pieces can break relatively quickly.
Polystyrene is available in two main forms: foam, also known as expanded or extruded polystyrene, and rigid solid. The foam variant is valued for its insulating and cushioning properties, while the solid form is often used in products requiring clarity, such as food packaging and laboratory equipment. Polystyrene is also used in appliances, automotive parts, and electrical components.
The choice between polystyrene and other plastics depends on the specific requirements of the modelling application and the available processing options. For instance, polystyrene can be thermoformed at low temperatures, while ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) provides greater impact strength. ABS is more challenging to deform above 130°C, making polystyrene a more accessible option for some modellers.
Polystyrene's brittleness can be mitigated through copolymerization with styrene-butadiene copolymers, as seen in high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). HIPS is less brittle than general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) and is commonly used in household and food packaging. Additionally, dyed polystyrene sheets with styrene butadiene (PS-SB) additives have higher impact strength than pure polystyrene.
When using polystyrene for modelling, it is essential to consider its thickness. Transparent polystyrene thinner than 2mm tends to break easily, and alternatives like PETG are recommended for such applications.
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PETG is recommended for applications where thin plastic is required
When it comes to choosing the best plastic for modelling, the decision depends on the specific requirements of the application and the available processing options. Polystyrene, for instance, is a commonly used plastic in modelling due to its low cost, ease of processing and shaping, and crystal-clear natural form. However, it is brittle, and its use is advised against in thicknesses below 2mm as it breaks relatively quickly.
For applications where thin plastic is required, PETG (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is recommended. PETG is a thermoplastic polyester known for its chemical resistance, durability, and excellent formability. It can be easily vacuum-formed, pressure-formed, and heat-bent due to its low forming temperatures, making it versatile for various manufacturing techniques.
PETG is particularly well-suited for thin applications as it is available in ultra-thin sheets as low as 0.04 inches thick. It is also strong, pliable, and less brittle than other plastics, providing excellent impact resistance. This makes it ideal for creating durable, long-lasting models that can withstand minor impacts without breaking.
Additionally, PETG is cost-effective, easy to cut, and adaptable to a wide range of fabrication techniques such as die cutting, routing, and bending. It is also food-safe, making it suitable for food containers and bottles. With its ease of use, durability, and versatility, PETG is an excellent choice for modelling applications that require thin plastic sheets.
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Plastic sheets should be dried before use to avoid moisture issues
When it comes to choosing the best plastic for modelling, there are a few options to consider, each with its own advantages. Polystyrene is widely used in model making due to its low cost, ease of processing and shaping, and crystal-clear natural form. However, it is extremely brittle, so it is recommended to use thicker sheets or opt for PETG for increased impact strength. ABS is another popular choice for its impact resistance, petrol and oil resistance, and ability to be glued and painted effectively. It has a temperature resistance of just under 100°C and is ideal for moving parts in models.
Regardless of the type of plastic chosen for modelling, it is essential to dry plastic sheets before use to prevent moisture issues. Plastics in the resin state, such as polystyrene and ABS, can be hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the atmosphere during storage, transportation, and manufacturing. This excess moisture can lead to severe material inconsistencies, resulting in a substandard final product. Visible issues include silver streaking or splay, but there may also be invisible damage.
The drying process helps to remove trapped moisture and maximize the quality of the moulded parts. For effective drying, it is crucial to consider the specific polymer being processed. An elevated drying temperature accelerates moisture removal but must remain below the softening or melting point of the material. For instance, ABS sheets should be dried at approximately 65°C per millimetre of material thickness for about 2 hours.
Additionally, it is important to clean the plastic surface before gluing or painting. Alcohol is recommended for cleaning the surface of ABS sheets to ensure optimal bonding and painting with common acrylic paints. Proper drying and surface preparation are crucial steps in the modelling process to achieve the desired results and ensure the longevity of the final product.
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Surfaces should be cleaned with alcohol before gluing or painting
When it comes to choosing the best plastic for modelling, ABS, polystyrene, and PETG are the most commonly used options. Polystyrene, for instance, is widely used due to its low cost, ease of processing and shaping, and crystal-clear natural form. ABS, on the other hand, stands out for its impact resistance, corrosion resistance, and ease of gluing and painting. Its temperature resistance is just under 100°C, and it has good petrol and oil resistance.
Now, regarding the importance of cleaning surfaces with alcohol before gluing or painting, it is indeed a recommended practice in certain scenarios. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Cleaning Surfaces with Alcohol for Gluing:
Before gluing, it is crucial to ensure that the surface is clean and free of contaminants. In the case of ABS, cleaning the surface with alcohol can enhance bonding. However, when working with certain adhesives like 3M 5200, it is advised not to use alcohol for cleaning as it can interfere with the adhesion of the sealant. Instead, a mild detergent or solvent specifically designed for the type of surface is recommended.
Cleaning Surfaces with Alcohol for Painting:
Preparing a surface for painting can be challenging for beginners. Cleaning the surface with alcohol before painting is generally recommended to achieve a smooth finish. Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol is suitable for this purpose, but drinking alcohol should be avoided as it may make the surface sticky and greasy. When working with metal, cleaning with alcohol is essential to remove grease and contaminants. However, caution must be exercised to prevent alcohol from coming into contact with plastic parts, as it can cause discoloration. Additionally, alcohol should not be used on bare wood, as it can damage the wood grains.
In summary, cleaning surfaces with alcohol before gluing or painting can be beneficial in certain situations, but it is important to consider the specific materials and adhesives involved, as well as follow manufacturer instructions, to ensure optimal results.
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Frequently asked questions
The best plastic for modelling depends on the specific requirements of your project. Polystyrene is the most commonly used plastic in modelling. It is cheap, easy to shape, and available in a clear form. However, it is also extremely brittle, so it is not suitable for applications that require thin plastic. ABS is another option that is impact-resistant and has good petrol and oil resistance. It can also be glued and painted very well.
Polystyrene is used in modelling because it is easy to shape and can be thermoformed at low temperatures. However, it is brittle and breaks quickly, so it is recommended to use PETG for applications that require thin plastic.
ABS is used in modelling for parts that need to withstand impacts, such as vehicles, ships, aircraft, tanks, and excavators. It is also used for moving elements in modelling, where other plastics would result in quick fatigue failure.
