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| Archive - August 2006 Posted Aug-09-06 13:30:43 PDT
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Original PMC |
PMC + |
PMC 3 |
| Formula |
Formulated to work like modeling clay. The particle size and the proportion of binder is higher than in the other versions of PMC. It has the longest working time and the greatest shrinkage. |
Created specifically to allow for lower temperatures that would make it possible to include gems and sterling silver elements. It has three firing schedules. It shrinks less than original PMC and is a bit stronger. Because there is less metal, it has a slightly shorter working time. |
Reduced firing time and temperature. The material uses smaller particles and is the strongest, most dense version of the PMC family. The lower firing temperature allows firing with alcohol fuel; the shorter firing times allow torch-firing. |
| Usage / Examples |
Capturing textures: lace, leaves, rubber stamps
Reduction: when using molds or stamps
Detailed ornamentation: layering, tooling, delicate modeling with handtools |
Setting stones: some natural stones are possible
Increased strength: hooks, clasps, bails, and other
small elements
Efficiency of short firings: especially helpful in workshops |
Setting stones: more natural stones are possible
Increased strength: rings, buckles, bracelets
Efficiency of short firings: especially helpful in workshops and demonstrations |
| Shrinkage |
Consistently shrinks by 28%. To determine size after firing, place the work or a drawing on a photocopier and reduce to 70%. |
85–90% of its starting size. Longer firing increases shrinkage slightly. |
85–90% of its starting size. Longer firing increases shrinkage slightly. |
| Firing Schedule |
• Fire at 1650°F (900°C) for at least two hours. |
• 1650°F (900°C) for at least 10 minutes
• 1560°F (850°C) for at least 20 minutes
• 1470°F (800°C) for at least 30 minutes |
• 1290°F (700°C) for at least 10 minutes
• 1200°F (650°C) for at least 20 minutes
• 1110°F (600°C) for at least 30 minutes |
| Strength |
When properly fired, original PMC has 75% the density of rolled fine silver. It is 86% as strong, and roughly 30% lighter than the same size piece when cast. |
Fired PMC+ has 88% the density of rolled fine silver. It is 91% as strong and roughly 10% lighter than the same size piece when cast. |
Fired PMC3 has 90–94% the density of rolled fine silver—depending on the firing process—and it is 95% as strong. | |
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