VFI®-3161 60 A MDI Molding Rubber

VFI®-3161 60 A MDI Molding Rubber

VFI-3161 60 A MDI Molding Rubber is a 1A:2B, versatile urethane rubber that has high durability to make strong, flexible concrete molds and form liners. MDI-based rubber is best used in controlled, high-production environments where little moisture interaction is involved. The material maintains a workable viscosity, allowing you to pour thin, intricate parts or large parts quickly. Its viscosity also helps dissipate air bubbles without using a vacuum chamber. An extended pot life provides ample time to work with the material. The standard color of VFI-3161 is green, but a neutral color (VFI-3163) is available.

VFI-3161 60 A MDI Molding Rubber from VFI is a versatile urethane with an extended pot life for making strong concrete molds and formliners.

Features & Benefits

  • Captures excellent detail and texture for high-quality, repeatable results
  • Superior physical properties for making concrete molds and form liners
  • 60 A elastomer with excellent rebound properties for easier demolding
  • Moderate viscosity for pouring thin, intricate parts or large parts quickly
  • Removes air bubbles without the need for vacuum degassing
  • Outperforms when casting pigmented and colored concrete
  • Consistent results in large- or small-scale applications
  • Easy processing at room temperature

Instructions for Use:

Mold Preparation

The molding surface must be clean, dry, and free of dirt, oils, and debris. Use only non-sulfurous clay on molds to prevent unwanted adhesion and improper cure. The molding surface must be fully sealed and non-porous. Use a release agent to prevent adhesion. We recommend using Chem-Trend MR-515 Aerosol or a similar release agent. Spray several layers over the entire mold, waiting for the surface to dry before adding more. The release will help protect and extend the life of the mold. Spraying too much release can produce a shiny/glossy surface on the rubber that will transfer over to future castings. The material is compatible with most molds as long as it is used with a proper release agent.

Mixing

The material should be at least 65°F before use for proper mixing and application. Mixing times may vary depending on volume and mixing method. Vacuum degassing can further reduce air entrapment but is not required.

Thoroughly mix the POLY “B” component before mixing with the ISO “A” component. Usually, this takes a minimum of 3 minutes per “B” container with proper mixing equipment. Once the “B” component is thoroughly mixed, properly pour 1 part of the “A” component into 2 parts of the “B” component by volume, 100 parts “A” component to 182.15 parts “B” component by weight.  Thoroughly mix for at least 30 seconds while ensuring the mix is uniform and homogenous. Transfer into a new, clean container and mix again before use. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container for uniformity.

Molding Process

Pour the material in one spot at the lowest point of the mold until the desired thickness is reached. VFI recommends pouring at least ½ of an inch thick. Allow the rubber to sit at room temperature for a minimum of 16 hours before demolding. It will develop full physical properties after 7 days at room temperature. It is required that the rubber sits for 3 days at room temperature before use or shipping.

When using the rubber for casting, apply a release agent before each use. Use a release agent from a reputable release company, such as Chem-Trend, Stoner Molding Solutions, or Cresset Chemical Co. Do not use a solvent-containing release, as it can distort (shrink or expand) the mold.

Safety

*Always read the safety data sheet before working with chemicals

Use chemicals only as directed and for their intended purpose. Do not dispose of chemicals down the drain. Most chemicals must be disposed of as hazardous waste.

PPE to avoid all unnecessary exposure:

  • Eye protection – wear approved safety glasses and any additional eye protection as necessary
  • Hand protection – wear chemically resistant protective gloves (nitrile, butyl, or neoprene)
  • Skin and body protection – wear suitable protective clothing
  • Respiratory protection – in case of insufficient ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment. Respirator selection must be based on known or anticipated exposure levels, the hazards of the product, and the safe working limits of the selected respirator

Product Limitations

This product contains isocyanate, which can irritate the skin and is toxic if inhaled as particulate matter. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors and repeated skin contact. It is not UV color stable and has no long-term UV testing. Urethane is very moisture-sensitive, so VFI-3161 should only be used in a controlled, high-production environment to limit moisture interaction. It must be protected from freezing.

  • Incompatible materials – A side: water, alcohols, amines, bases, and acids. B side: oxidizers
  • Conditions to avoid – heat and incompatible materials
  • Chemical stability – stable under normal storage conditions
  • Reactivity & hazardous reactions – no dangerous reaction known under normal use
  • Hazardous decomposition products – A side: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and HCN. B side: may include, and are not limited to, oxides of carbon

Potential Health Hazards

  • May cause respiratory tract irritation. A side material may also cause allergy and asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled.
  • Causes skin irritation and sensitization: redness, edema, drying, defatting, and cracking of the skin. Repeated exposure to B side material can result in absorption through the skin, causing a significant health hazard.
  • Causes serious eye irritation: discomfort, pain, excess blinking and tear production, marked redness, and swelling of the conjunctiva.
  • May cause stomach distress, nausea, or vomiting if swallowed.

*If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical advice or attention. Call a poison control center or doctor if swallowed.

Click here for more information on the full technical data sheet.

Application Methods:

  • Pour Pour

Available Packaging:

  • Tote
  • Drum
  • 5 Gallon
  • 1 Gallon

Frequently Asked Questions

What durometer of rubber do you think I need?

How much urethane rubber do I need to make a mold?

How thick should my mold walls be?

What kind of clay works best with urethane rubber?

Do I need a release agent? What kind?

Can I use an oil-based release with urethane rubber?

What happens if I use too much release?

How do I prepare the mold box and model before pouring urethane rubber?

Should I use silicone or acrylic caulk to seal my mold box?

Should I measure by weight or volume?

How do you mix the molding rubber?

Does temperature affect the mold making process?

Why is my urethane rubber mold shrinking?

Why is my urethane rubber mold expanding?

What temperature should I pour the rubber at?

How soon can I use the mold after demolding it? (How long does it need to cure?)

How many pulls can I get out of a urethane rubber mold?

How often should I use mold release during the casting process?

How should I clean my urethane rubber molds?

Can I store my molds outside? In sunlight?

How should I store my urethane rubber mold?

How long have you been in business?

Do you sell to other concrete companies?

What is your price?

Why am I seeing bubbles and pinholes on my urethane mold?

How can I minimize air bubbles in my mold?

Why isn’t my urethane rubber mold curing?