What Is a PU Prototype or a PU Figure?
Before discussing PU figures (Polyurethane figures), it is essential to understand PU resin (Polyurethane). PU resin is a high-molecular compound known for its superior physical properties compared to PVC and ABS. Once cured, it exhibits exceptional toughness, resistance to deformation, and does not exude oil when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, it has a smooth texture resembling ivory.
PU figures are toys crafted from PU resin, typically produced in two ways: via light-curing 3D printing to create PU prototypes or through silicone mold casting for small-scale production of resin figures.
In the designer toy and art toy exhibition communities, “resin” toys often refer to PU resin products. However, this material is rarely used for mass-produced designer toys due to its characteristics.
PU resin is the preferred material for GK kits model production in the toy industry, commonly known as "HEI-CAST resin." It consists of two components (A and B) mixed in equal proportions for rapid molding, often referred to as “AB water” in China.
PU resin is highly versatile, offering excellent detail reproduction, a pleasant tactile feel, and various colors such as white, ivory, beige, and transparent. Custom colors can also be formulated.
Despite its advantages, PU resin figure is more expensive than traditional plastics like PVC figure and ABS figure. It is harder and more brittle, requiring careful handling during transportation. The production process is relatively low-cost as PU resin does not require heating for molding; silicone molds are sufficient. However, silicone molds have limited durability, becoming unusable after approximately ten uses, making them suitable only for small-scale toy figure production.
Furthermore, compared to metal molds, silicone molds result in inconsistencies in shape and surface quality, hindering mass production and automated painting. As a result, manual adjustments and hand-painted finishes are necessary, significantly increasing labor costs.
PU resin is commonly used for small-batch production of artist toys & designer toys due to its superior detail reproduction. However, its high material cost, low mold durability, and high labor expenses contribute to a higher overall production cost per unit compared to PVC figures.