Autoclave

An autoclave is a high pressure, heated chamber used to cure cell cast Lucite. When liquid Lucite is poured into molds, tiny air bubbles form naturally as the material begins to polymerize. The autoclave applies controlled heat and pressure, which eliminates bubbles and stabilizes the Lucite into a solid, crystal clear form.

It is a crucial part of creating:

• Lucite embedments

• High clarity blocks

• Layered acrylic pieces

• Complex shapes with inserts

Without proper curing in an autoclave, pieces can develop internal bubbles, haze or structural weaknesses that reduce the quality of the finished award. Managing the potential chemical and thermal reactions of embedded media when placed in an autoclave is among the closely-held secrets of cell casting experts.

The use of an autoclave is among the elements of production that differentiates Lucite or acrylic from resin, a lower-grade thermoplastic that cures at room temperature and at normal atmospheric pressure. Lucite requires higher temperatures and higher atmospheric pressure, and the result is a high-grade product with high optical clarity.