Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Where to Find ?

Chris L wrote:

>With the discussion on workholding recently, I rekindled my desire to
>find a "Cheap" source for that sticky rubber that is used on some
>engraving table tops.
>If you are not familiar with this stuff, it is a fairly typical looking
>rubber mat (usually orange) that you apply to your work area. When you
>want to engrave a nameplate, just set the plate into place and engrave
>away !
>
>It is "Sticky", to any clean, dry metallic material you might want to
>engrave on, and will not allow anything flat to move at all. It is an
>"Active" type of rubber and usually comes with a self adhesive back for
>placement on your table top. It works excellent, and I have a few small
>pieces that were cutoffs from a place I used to work at.
>
>The problem is, Those that sell it hold it out as some real "miracle"
>stuff. Unfortunately they and have attached a "miracle" PRICE to it as
>well !
>
>You can see an example of it here: http://www.engravingsys.com/MultiMat.htm
>
>I know there has to be a rubber gasket material out there that works the
>same way, but at far, far, FAR less cost.
>
>

The orange color is a strong clue that it is silicone elastomer. There
are definitely
different surface preparations and formulas for this stuff, but my guess
is that
anybody who is in the silicones business can figure out what you want
and supply
the right stuff. The price on the above web site is definitely high,
but this stuff
is pretty expensive in general. You might be able to get it for half or
less of those
prices, however.

Jon