Info EDUARD
Monthly magazine about history and scale plastic modeling.
How work with Plastic II
Many less experienced modelers often feel apprehensive about cutting into plastic or thinning parts to accommodate additional detailing or conversion sets. In this section, I want to reassure readers that these more advanced modeling techniques are not difficult and that, with the right tools, achieving the necessary modifications is quite manageable. Most larger Brassin sets require modelers to make similar adjustments to their builds. For those hesitant to purchase aftermarket sets due to this process, I aim to show that, with a bit of practice, anyone can master it. In this article, I will demonstrate how to prepare a 1/48 P-51B/C wing for the Brassin gun bay set. I will present two methods: one using only basic modeling tools, and the other employing a motorized Proxxon tool.
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How to Work with Plastic?STAVEBNICEJakub NademlejnskýMany less experienced modelers often feelapprehensive about cutting into plastic orthinning parts to accommodate additionaldetailing or conversion sets. In this section,I want to reassure readers that thesemore advanced modeling techniques arenot difficult and that, with the right tools,achieving the necessary modifications isquite manageable. Most larger Brassinsets require modelers to make similaradjustments to their builds. For thosehesitant to purchase aftermarket sets due tothis process, I aim to show that, with a bit ofpractice, anyone can master it. In this article,I will demonstrate how to preparea 1/48 P-51B/C wing for the Brassin gun bayset. I will present two methods: one usingonly basic modeling tools, and the otheremploying a motorized Proxxon tool.Part II - preparationof plastics for installationof aftermarket setsThe title photo showcases the toolsI use for cutting plastic and major sanding.At the beginning of this article, I’d like to recap the basics fromthe last one—using single-blade pliers to remove parts fromthe wing halves. I detach the bottom sprues by laying the bladeface of the pliers flush with the wing surface.INFO Eduard66November 2024Page 2
STAVEBNICEI cut off the classic sprues by positioning the pliers perpendicularto the wing's surface....or by cutting them away with a sharp scalpel.Next, I sand the sprue burrs using sandpaper or a file...The Mustang's wing features marks on the inside that indicate whereto cut. These marks help us to define the areas to be cut or sanded.The covers can be removed with basic modeling tools. First, I takea sharp chisel and make several cuts around the paneling of the manholecovers to deepen the engraving where I’ll be cutting the material.INFO Eduard67November 2024Page 3
STAVEBNICENext, I use a pin vise fitted with a drill bit.I’ll use the drill bit to create several holes in the area I want to remove.It’s advisable to space the holes closely together, as this makes thejob easier.I can then use conventional pliers to connect the multiple holes into one larger hole.This density of holes is ideal.INFO Eduard68November 2024Page 4
STAVEBNICEWith such a large hole created, I can use a scalpel to gradually cutaway the remaining material, getting closer to the engraved linesI made earlier with the chisel.Finally, I use the scalpel to refine the corners, ensuring the hole is ready.When I’m close to the engraving, I switch to a thin file insteadof the scalpel.I then smooth out any traces of plastic dust or uneven cuts using Mr.Cement S glue from Gunz Sangyo.The alternative method, faster and more convenient, for cuttingthe hole is to use a motorized fine grinder and drill. I used a drill fromProxxon for this procedure, though many manufacturers offer similar tools.INFO Eduard69November 2024Page 5
STAVEBNICEI attach a dental grinder to the chuck ofthe motorized tool and thin the plastic onthe inside, which is marked with heavyengravings where I’ll cut off the gun shaftcovers.Next, I drill holes in the wing again with the motorized tool. The machine drill is very efficient.INFO Eduard70November 2024Page 6
STAVEBNICEI can then grind the area using a wide file.The covers are now completely drilled and ready to be removed.I’ll connect the small holes to form a larger one using pliers. This creates a sizable hole that can comfortably accommodateadditional tools.INFO Eduard71November 2024Page 7
STAVEBNICEI then clean the entire hole with Mr. Cement S glue.Now the wing is ready for the gunshaft. The entire operation took meapproximately 15 minutes.I cut away remains with a scalpel. And sand the necessary areas with a finer file.(we will continue withmore techniques in the next issues...)INFO Eduard72November 2024
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