Is Hydrocal the Same as Plaster of Paris?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional artist, you might be wondering if Hydrocal is the same as Plaster of Paris. Both products are used for casting and mold-making, but they aren’t exactly the same. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Hydrocal and Plaster of Paris.

What is Hydrocal?

Hydrocal is a type of gypsum cement that is made by mixing plaster of Paris with a small amount of Portland cement. This mixture creates a harder and denser material than regular Plaster of Paris. Hydrocal is used in a variety of applications like casting figurines, sculptures, and architectural models.

What is Plaster of Paris?

Plaster of Paris is also made from gypsum, but it’s not mixed with Portland cement. It’s a fine powder that can be mixed with water to create a paste-like substance that hardens when it dries. Plaster of Paris has been used for centuries in art, construction, and medical applications.

Differences between Hydrocal and Plaster of Paris

  • Strength: One significant difference between the two products is their strength. Hydrocal has higher compressive strength than plaster of Paris.
  • Drying time: Another difference between these two materials is drying time.

    Hydrocal takes longer to dry compared to plaster of Paris.

  • Color: The color of both materials also differs slightly. Hydrocal has an off-white color when dry compared to the bright white color of plaster.
  • Surface hardness: When it comes to surface hardness, Hydrocal produces smoother surfaces than plaster.

Uses for Hydrocal vs. Plaster of Paris

  • Hydrocal uses: Hydrocal is ideal for applications that require a higher level of strength and durability like architectural models and sculptures.
  • Plaster of Paris uses: Plaster of Paris is perfect for casting decorative pieces, creating molds, and repairing walls and ceilings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Hydrocal and Plaster of Paris share similarities, they are not the same products. Hydrocal has more compressive strength, takes longer to dry, produces smoother surfaces, and is ideal for applications that require a higher level of durability like casting figurines, sculptures, and architectural models. Plaster of Paris is perfect for casting decorative pieces, creating molds, and repairing walls and ceilings.

If you’re unsure which material to use for your project, it’s best to consult with an expert or try both products to see which one suits your needs best.

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