Axson PX 5212 Vacuum Casting Material
Axson PX 5212 is a high-performance polyurethane casting resin formulated to simulate the optical and mechanical properties of thermoplastics, specifically PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate / Acrylic). Renowned for its exceptional transparency and UV stability, it is the industry standard for producing high-fidelity clear prototypes via Vacuum Casting. At JUCHENG, we utilize this material combined with our premium silicone tooling and expert post-polishing techniques to deliver parts that rival the clarity of glass or mass-produced injection molded lenses.
Axson PX 5212
Basic Characteristics & Composition
Axson PX 5212 is a two-component polyurethane system designed for processing in vacuum casting machines.
- PMMA Simulation: It is chemically engineered to mimic the rigidity, hardness, and refractive index of Acrylic (PMMA).
- UV Resistance: Unlike many standard clear resins that yellow over time, PX 5212 features advanced UV stabilizers, ensuring long-term optical clarity even with outdoor exposure.
- Low Viscosity: Its fluid nature allows it to fill thin walls and replicate intricate mold textures perfectly without trapping air bubbles.
- Surface Finish: It cures to a hard surface that is easy to sand and polish, facilitating a high-gloss, mirror-like finish.
Color Options
Natural State: Crystal Clear / Water Clear (Transparent).
Custom Tinting: One of the key advantages at JUCHENG is our ability to tint PX 5212. By adding specific pigments during the mixing process, we can achieve:
Custom Tinting: One of the key advantages at JUCHENG is our ability to tint PX 5212. By adding specific pigments during the mixing process, we can achieve:
- Transparent Colors: Transparent Red (Tail lights), Transparent Blue, Amber, etc.
- Smoked/Tinted: Smoked Grey or Black for "dead front" display panels.
- Opaque: Although naturally clear, it can be painted or dyed to opaque colors if required for specific gloss effects.
Key Technical Parameters
1. Mechanical Properties (Typical values after post-curing):
2. PROCESSING
4. STORAGE Shelf life is 6 months for PART A (Isocyanate) and 12 months for PART B (Polyol) in a dry place and in original unopened containers at a temperature between 60° F/(15° C) and 77° F/(25° C). Any open container must be tightly closed under dry nitrogen blanket.
| Property | Value | Unit | Standard |
| Hardness | 85 - 87 | Shore D | ISO 868 |
| Flexural Modulus | 2,200 - 2,400 | MPa | ISO 178 |
| Tensile Strength | 70 - 75 | MPa | ISO 527 |
| Elongation at Break | 7 - 10 | % | ISO 527 |
| Glass Transition Temp (Tg) | 95 - 100 | °C | TMA |
| Impact Strength (Charpy) | 20 - 30 | kJ/m² | ISO 179 |
| Refractive Index | ~ 1.49 | - | - |
| Linear Shrinkage | < 0.4 | % | - |
2. PROCESSING
- Mix Ratio: Polyol 100 : Isocyanate 100 (by weight). Accurate weighing is critical for optical clarity.
- Mixing Condition: Must be mixed under vacuum to remove all air bubbles.
- Pot Life: Approx. 15-20 minutes at 25°C. This allows sufficient time for casting complex molds.
- Demolding Time: Typically 45 - 60 minutes at 70°C.
- Curing: Requires post-curing in an oven to reach full physical properties and hardness.
3. PRECAUTIONS
- Moisture Sensitivity: Like all polyurethanes, Isocyanates are sensitive to moisture. Containers must be tightly closed after use to prevent foaming or bubbles in the final part.
- Safety: Operators typically wear gloves and safety glasses. Use in a ventilated area.
- Mold Life: PX 5212 is chemically aggressive towards silicone molds compared to standard ABS-like resins. We use special release agents to extend mold life.
4. STORAGE Shelf life is 6 months for PART A (Isocyanate) and 12 months for PART B (Polyol) in a dry place and in original unopened containers at a temperature between 60° F/(15° C) and 77° F/(25° C). Any open container must be tightly closed under dry nitrogen blanket.
- Shelf Life: typically 6-12 months in original unopened containers.
- Conditions: Store in a dry place at a temperature between 15°C and 25°C. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
Application Scenarios & Fields
Axson PX 5212 is the material of choice for industries requiring visual validation and optical performance:
- Automotive Lighting: Prototype headlamp lenses, tail light covers, interior ambient light guides, and turn signal indicators.
- Consumer Electronics: Transparent display windows, LED covers, cosmetic bottles, and clear aesthetic casings for mobile devices.
- Fluidics & Medical: Transparent flow models, reservoirs, and manifolds for visual inspection of internal fluid dynamics.
- Luxury Goods: High-end crystal-like trophies, perfume bottle prototypes, and artistic models requiring a glass-like aesthetic.
Vacuum Casting Process Compatibility
- Vacuum Casting: Specifically designed for use in silicone rubber molds under vacuum conditions. JUCHENG’s vacuum chambers ensure complete degassing to prevent micro-bubbles.
- Polishing: The material is hard enough to withstand aggressive wet sanding and buffing compounds, essential for restoring transparency after demolding.
- Overmolding: Can be used as a substrate for overmolding with soft rubber-like resins (though adhesion testing is recommended).
Advantages vs. Limitations
| Advantages | Limitations |
| Optical Clarity: Achieves water-clear transparency comparable to molded PMMA. | Temperature: While good (Tg ~100°C), it is not as heat-resistant as Polycarbonate simulants (like PX 5210). |
| UV Stability: Excellent resistance to yellowing, suitable for optical parts. | Brittleness: Like real PMMA, it is relatively rigid and can be brittle under heavy impact compared to PP-like resins. |
| Polishability: Easy to achieve a high-gloss finish manually. | Processing Time: Requires careful vacuum control and longer curing times to ensure bubble-free results. |
| Detail Reproduction: Low viscosity captures fine mold details. | Cost: Premium optical resin is slightly more expensive than standard ABS-like resins. |
Manufacturers & Alternatives
Manufacturer: Sika Axson (Sika Advanced Resins). A global leader in high-performance polyurethane systems.
Alternatives at JUCHENG:
If you need higher heat resistance: We recommend Axson PX 5210 (Simulates PC).
If you need higher impact strength: We recommend Axson PX 527 (Simulates PC, more durable).
If you need a Japanese alternative: We offer Hei-Cast T0387 (High transparent resin).
Alternatives at JUCHENG:
If you need higher heat resistance: We recommend Axson PX 5210 (Simulates PC).
If you need higher impact strength: We recommend Axson PX 527 (Simulates PC, more durable).
If you need a Japanese alternative: We offer Hei-Cast T0387 (High transparent resin).
Learn more about ABS type materials
- ABS Hei-Cast PU8150 for Vacuum Casting Material
- ABS Hei-Cast PU8160 for Vacuum Casting Material
- ABS Axson UP4280 for Vacuum Casting Material
- Axson PX215 - Vacuum Casting ABS Material
- Axson PX527 - Vacuum Casting ABS Material
- Axson PX 223/HT - Vacuum Casting ABS Material
- Axson PX 225 / PX 225L - Vacuum Casting ABS Material
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