demolded

Demolded refers to the act of removing a finished part from its mold after the material has cured, set, or reached the required phase of solidification. It is a standard step in manufacturing, casting, prototyping, and various crafts, including concrete, plastics and polymers, resins, ceramics, waxes, and even some food products such as chocolate. The term emphasizes the separation of the part from the mold when it has achieved the intended shape.

The demolding process depends on the material, mold type, and release strategy. Rigid molds often use mechanical ejection or slide mechanisms, while flexible or silicone molds may be peeled or gently flexed free. Release agents reduce sticking and abrasion but must be compatible with subsequent finishing or use. Design considerations such as draft angles, undercuts, and surface finish influence ease of demolding and the risk of damage. Cure or set times, environmental conditions, and part geometry determine appropriate demold timing; demolding too early can cause warping or surface defects, while demolding too late can complicate removal or alter dimensions.

Post-demolding steps may include trimming, sanding, polishing, curing, painting, or sealing. In concrete, demolding times vary with mix and climate and affect surface texture and strength. In resin or plastic casting, demolding is followed by additional curing or post-processing to achieve final properties. Safety and quality practices emphasize appropriate tooling, respect for mold wear limits, and prevention of defects through controlled release and handling.

Examples span from architectural concrete panels to hobbyist resin figures and industrial plastic parts.