Masterbatch manufacturer adds colour to an iconic hobby

UK manufacturer of masterbatches, Silvergate, has worked on a project that will see plastic playthings inspire a new generation of hobbyists.

The company worked alongside East Sussex-based Plastech Tooling and Moulding to produce ‘Quick Build’, the latest product range from iconic modelling kit brand, Airfix.

To engage with a younger audience, as well as existing fans of the traditional modelling sets, Airfix set about designing the range using push-fit construction technology and pre-coloured plastics. PlasTech was appointed the responsibility of injection moulding and product assembly and Silvergate was tasked with the development of the colours.

Unlike traditional modelling kits, the Quick Build range is manufactured using coloured plastics. As aircraft replicas, the colours used had to be accurate, consistent and compliant with EN71 Toy Regulations.

“Technicians at Silvergate invested a great deal into the development of the colours to ensure they accurately replicated the aircrafts whilst complying with all necessary regulations relevant to toy manufacturing,” commented Mark Thompson, Operations Manager at PlasTech.

The Quick Build range won the prestigious Best New Toy award in the Hobby Category at this year’s London Toy Fair, presented by the British Toy and Hobby Association.