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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.
Axson PX 5212 prototype

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:
  • 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):
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).
Learn more about ABS type materials
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