comparisons

Mold Material Heat Tests
November 28, 2002

This set of tests was done to confirm whether all materials were able to tolerate sustained high temperatures. I knew that Miracle Mold was rated up to 650degF sustained, but the others were an unknown, though I had heard claims that they were rated for high temperatures. What the results of this test seem to indicate is that the other two products may be rated for short bursts of high temperatures, they evidently are not rated for sustained exposure to heat.

For a page of mold tests showing heat trials at polymer clay temperature (260DegF), go HERE and for a page of molded clay that was baked in the molds used in these tests, please go HERE

Miracle Mold after 1 hr at 450degF at 10x magnification	This mold has been baked and shows only a fade in color but no degradation.
Product B after 1 hr at 450degF at 10x magnification	This mold shows degradation/air pockets. Slight color fade
Product C after 1 hr at 450degF at 10x magnification	Note degradation at bottom - bubbling/pockets Also some slight fade/purpling in color

Miracle Mold after 1 hr at 450degF at 60x magnification	Ridges after an hour are still clean. No pockets/bubbles
Product B after 1 hr at 450degF at 60x magnification	Air pockets are quite evident and ridges becoming softened
Product C after 1 hr at 450degF at 60x magnification	Air pockets throughout and dulling of ridges

Miracle Mold after 2 hrs at 450degF at 10x magnification	Still looking pretty good. Detail sharp
Product B after 2 hrs at 450degF at 10x magnification	Bubbles and pockets increasing
Product C after 2 hrs at 450degF at 10x magnification	More bubbling and pieces starting to flake off of edges

Miracle Mold after 2 hrs at 450degF at 60x magnification	Ridges still clean with no evidence of bubbling or deterioration
Product B after 2 hrs at 450degF at 60x magnification	Bubbles have burst and surface getting pitted
Product C after 2 hrs at 450degF at 60x magnification	Bubbling and flaking of pieces quite evident