How to Achieve Texture Effects on UHPC Shaped Surfaces Through Molds? Texture Transfer and Qinglong Group Surface Treatment Technology

Achieving the texture effects on UHPC shaped surfaces depends heavily on the mold's precise replication capability, accomplished primarily through a triple technical path of "digital capture, mold engraving, and forming processes." Qinglong Group has accumulated extensive experience in texture realization through projects such as the stone-imitation wall of the Third Front Construction Museum in Panzhihua, Sichuan, and the wood-grain translucent panels at Shanghai Century Plaza: first, a high-precision 3D scanner (accuracy ±0.1mm) is used to capture the texture data of natural materials and generate digital models; then, five-axis CNC machines engrave the reverse texture onto mold steel or wood substitute; finally, during UHPC casting or spraying, by controlling the vibration process and the use of release agents, the mold texture is perfectly transferred onto the component surface. In the Poly Peninsula No. 1 project in Hainan, the sandstone-imitation texture we achieved has a roughness (Ra value) differing from real stone by ≤5%, with tactile fidelity exceeding 90%, attaining an artistic effect of "indistinguishable from the real thing."

Digital Technology Enables High-Fidelity Texture Capture

The realism of textures originates from the accuracy of source capture. We use white-light or laser scanning technology to obtain high-definition 3D point cloud data of natural materials such as stone and wood. For complex organic textures (such as bark and leather), multi-layer scanning technology is employed to ensure complete detail. In the Wuxiang China Resources MixC One project in Nanning, the original texture data captured digitally provided an accurate blueprint for mold making.

Precision Machining Is the Key to Texture Replication

The engraving precision of the mold directly determines texture fidelity. The German five-axis CNC machining centers introduced by Qinglong Group achieve a positioning accuracy of ±0.02mm, capable of engraving the most subtle texture variations. Mold material selection is also crucial: for fine textures, high-hardness mold steel (such as NAK80) is selected to ensure no deformation over long-term use; for elastic textures (such as fabric), silicone molds can be used for transfer. Through continuous process trials, we have determined the optimal engraving parameters (such as tool diameter and feed rate) for different textures.

Forming Processes Control the Final Effect

After the mold is completed, the forming process is the final step. The fluidity, vibration time, and pressure of UHPC must be precisely controlled to both ensure the material fills the finest texture details and prevent over-vibration from blurring the texture. Demolding is equally critical, requiring dedicated release agents and careful timing of demolding. Through standardized operating procedures, Qinglong Group has ensured the success rate and consistency of texture transfer. Surface texture is the skin of UHPC art, and precise mold technology brings it to life.