Model boards are chosen when the customer needs a clean, stable physical reference that can be revised quickly. The right grade balances edge retention, machining behaviour, surface finish and the expected number of design changes.
01 / CUSTOMER PROBLEM
What this route solves
Create large styling, design-reference or master models without the mass and lead time of metal. A homogeneous board gives the design team a surface they can inspect, paint and change before committing to a mould or production tool.
02 / SELECTION LOGIC
Choose for the job
Start with model size, surface class, machining method and expected revision work. Density is only one input; edge stability, chip formation, bonding, repair and the final surface treatment often decide the real cost.
03 / PROCESS CHECKPOINTS
Keep the surface honest
Bond and support the blank correctly, rough and finish machine with a controlled allowance, then seal pores and repair edges before paint or mould work. Keep the board grade, adhesive, filler and finishing system compatible.
04 / RELEASE CHECK
Know the boundary
A model-board grade is not automatically a production mould. Confirm temperature, release system, part count and thermal cycling against the specific TDS before using a model as a tool.