How Are Texture Effects on UHPC Shaped Surfaces Achieved Through Molds? Transfer Printing Technology and Precision Control Processes

The realization of surface textures on UHPC shapes relies on high-precision mold transfer technology, whose core lies in the precision process chain of "master mold fabrication - profile replication - demolding control". Through a series of technologies including CNC engraving, silicone replication molding, and surface treatment, Qinglong Group can precisely replicate stone textures (with a fidelity of ≥95%), wood grain effects, and even woven patterns, achieving a texture depth precision of ±0.1mm. In the translucent UHPC project at Shanghai Century Plaza, natural wood ring textures were successfully transferred using food-grade silicone molds, achieving a unity of art and technology.

Master mold fabrication is the source of texture. A five-axis CNC machine is used to engrave tooling board or aerospace-grade aluminum, with toolpath spacing of ≤0.2mm to ensure clear micro textures. Qinglong Group has introduced German engraving equipment capable of engraving textures as fine as 0.2mm in width. For complex natural textures (such as coral and tree bark), three-dimensional scanning is used to capture physical data, with reverse engineering generating the machining code. In an ecological pavilion project in Hainan, the porous structure of coral was perfectly replicated by scanning real coral samples.

The profile replication stage determines transfer quality. High-elasticity silicone rubber (hardness Shore A20-30) is used to make working molds; its excellent flowability allows it to fill the finest recesses. Vacuum degassing is controlled during pouring to avoid texture defects. Demolding technology ensures integrity: reasonable draft angles (typically ≥3°) are designed and combined with high-performance release agents to ensure that complex textures demold smoothly and without damage.

Surface treatment enhances the texture quality. After demolding, surface roughness is adjusted through processes such as sandblasting and acid pickling, or a transparent protective layer is applied to highlight the three-dimensional effect of the texture. Qinglong Group has established a texture database covering dozens of common effects, enabling rapid response to different design requirements. This mature process system makes UHPC an ideal material for realizing personalized architecture.