6th Sep 2022
RapidMask and Compound Curves
Today we are going to talk about RapidMask, our dry process photoresist film. There is a misconception that RapidMask can't conform to single or compound curves. This is NOT true! We are here to bust that myth and show you that RapidMask works great on both single curved surfaces (such as a rocks glass) and compound curved surfaces (such as a wine glass).
What is RapidMask Dry Process Film?
RapidMask is a dry process, self-adhesive film with no washout required. This innovative film will speed up your process when making masks for sandcarving by skipping the whole stage of washing and drying your photoresist film.
RapidMask is exclusive to IKONICS Imaging. We hold the patent on this technology and you can only purchase RapidMask rolls and RapidMask sheets through IKONICS Imaging or one of our distributors, such as JDS Industries. RapidMask costs the same as our washout films, so not only are you increasing your speed and efficiency, you are also increasing your ROI.
How Does RapidMask Work?
RapidMask works by placing a film negative over the dry process film and exposing with a UV light. The light crosslinks the polymers in the green RapidMask film and turns the parts of the film that are not blocked by the negative brittle. Those brittle areas turn blue and will blast away in a blast cabinet. The green areas of the film that were blocked by the film negative (and therefore not exposed to the UV light) will remain in tact, thus creating your mask.
RapidMask Photoresist Film on Compound Curves
RapidMask comes in two thicknesses, 2 mil and 4 mil. Our RapidMask High Definition 2 mil film was designed for halftones and high detail artwork. Our RapidMask High Tack 4 mil film was designed for more depth when sandcarving. For a single curved surfaces, such as a rocks glass, you can use either the 2 mil or 4 mil film.
For a compound curved surface, such as a wine glass, we recommend the 2 mil film. Since it is a thinner film it will conform easier and adhere better to a compound curve. When applying RapidMask HD 2 mil film onto a compound curve start in the middle and work your way outward toward each corner before removing the carrier sheet. Then remove the carrier sheet and apply the film down from the center out. Application technique will vary depending on how much of a compound curve is on the glass.
Watch the video linked below to watch Andy, Technical Sales Specialist for IKONICS Imaging, do a live demo of sandcarving on a compound curve using RapidMask.
Video: RapidMask on a Compound Curve >>
If you have any additional questions about RapidMask or how to apply our dry process photoresist film to a compound curve, contact our technical support team today.