Lamination Shells: What They Are and How to Use Them

What Are Lamination Shells?

Lamination shells are 3D printed shells of the final socket design, created after the check socket stage. They are printed with very thin PETG material and serve as a temporary mold for building the definitive socket.

How to Use Lamination Shells

1. Print the Shell

• The lamination shell is 3D printed from the final approved design
• Printed with thin PETG for easy removal

2. Pour the Plaster

• Fill the inside of the lamination shell with plaster
• Allow the plaster to fully set and harden

3. Remove the Shell

• Cut along the seam in the back of the lamination shell with a cutting tool
• Peel the thin PETG away from the hardened plaster model

4. Proceed to Definitive Fabrication

• Use the plaster model created from the shell
• Continue with the standard definitive fabrication process as usual

Why Use Lamination Shells?

• Provides a clean, accurate mold from the final digital design
• Reduces hand modification before definitive fabrication
• Easy to pour, set, and remove thanks to thin PETG material

Are Lamination Shells Free?

• Lamination Shells are free if they are selected on the initial order form. See the Check Box within Fabrication Instructions.
• If an order has been sent to the printer queue and a Lamination Shell is requested, a new order and design is required.

Updated on: 01/10/2025