GRS Thermo-Loc® Stick

Description

Thermo Loc by GRS® is an essential material for jewellers and engravers who require a reliable, non-damaging way to hold their workpieces. At room temperature, Thermo Loc is rigid and strong enough to secure items such as rings, pendants, or watch components. When heated it becomes pliable, allowing you to mould it around even the most irregular shapes. Once cooled, the polymer hardens, holding your item firmly in place for safe and precise working.

The medium-grey colour has been chosen to reduce eye strain under workshop lighting, making it more comfortable to focus on fine details for long periods. Because it is non-toxic, biodegradable, and reusable, Thermo Loc is also a sustainable choice for professional workshops.

Key Features:

• Material: Non-toxic and biodegradable
• Properties: Pliable when heated, rigid at room temperature
• Use: Ideal for holding delicate items during work

Heating Methods for Thermo Loc:

1. Hot Water Method

• How it works: Place the Thermo Loc stick (whole or chopped into smaller pieces) in hot water for 3–5 minutes.

• Temperature: Approx. 65–80°C is ideal.

• Benefits:

  • Very safe, especially in workshops where open flames aren’t allowed.

  • Even heating, softens the polymer thoroughly.

  • Water prevents overheating and makes the material easier to handle.

• Practical tip: Chop the stick into smaller pieces before heating; it melts faster and is easier to shape into a compact lump around your workpiece.

2. Microwave Heating Method

• How it works: Place Thermo Loc in a microwave-safe container, add enough water to cover it, then heat for about 1–2 minutes (depending on microwave power).

• Benefits:

  • Very quick and convenient.

  • The water prevents the material from overheating or burning.

• Caution:

  • Never heat Thermo Loc in a microwave without water—it can burn or emit fumes.

  • Always use a dedicated container for this purpose.

• Practical tip: Ideal for quick jobs when you only need a small amount softened.

3. Electric Heat Gun Method

• How it works: Direct warm air onto the Thermo Loc until it softens.

• Benefits:

  • Allows for spot-heating—useful if you only want to soften part of the material while keeping the rest rigid.

  • No water is required, making it less messy.

• Caution:

  • Keep the heat gun moving to avoid overheating or scorching the polymer.

  • Work in a ventilated area, as prolonged direct heating can release odour.

• Practical tip: Perfect when adjusting a fixture already in place without wanting to re-soften the entire block.

4. Oven Heating Method

• How it works: Place the Thermo Loc in an oven-safe tray at approx. 65–80°C until pliable (usually 10–15 minutes).

• Benefits:

  • Ideal for heating larger quantities evenly.

  • Great for preparing workshop stock in advance (you can pre-form blocks to fit ring clamps, engraving vices, etc.).

• Caution:

  • Never overheat above 95°C.

  • Always use an oven dedicated to workshop use—do not use food ovens.

• Practical tip: Use this method to prepare multiple pieces at once for high-volume work.