The 3D model parts for the Komodo dragon skull must now be moulded so they can be replicated in wax.

The lower jaw quarters are the easiest to mould. I have created silicone rubber moulds for these parts. These are two part moulds.

The upper quarters are more complex. The part is cut in two so that each section of the top jaw can be moulded separately. These moulds are multi-part moulds so that moulded part can be removed from the rubber. For these moulds I am using urethane rubber. This rubber is less expensive than silicone rubber, although it is not as durable.

The thin section of bone that runs along the top centre of the skull is made larger with a wooden filler so that the wax will flow and replicate this thin piece. When cast in metal the excess metal will be removed prior to assembly.

The following picture shows that one top quarter has been cast and the second half is being moulded. The mould for the top quarter was a four part mould, as can be seen below. The second half of the top quarter shown in the picture above was a three part mould.

The complete set of wax copies for the Komodo dragon is shown below. These parts were cast in my 4×10 inch and 5×10 inch casting flasks.

The next post will show the casting and finishing of this Komodo dragon skull.