Model Prep Essentials: Arch Trimmers, Dowel Pins and Model Base Formers
Good model prep comes down to three jobs: trimming the stone cleanly, pinning and sectioning dies accurately, and giving the model a consistent base that mounts on the articulator. Meta Dental Corp makes the arch trimmer, dowel pins, model base formers, trimmer wheels and discs that cover each job, and Chase Dental Supply carries the full Meta Dental Corp model prep line.
This guide walks through each step and explains which Meta product fits it, using only the specs Meta publishes.
Quick Answer
Model prep is the work of trimming, pinning, sectioning and basing a stone model so dies are removable and the case mounts accurately. Key tools include a model arch trimmer such as the Meta #907, dowel pins and twin pins, model base formers for plastic articulators, and thin model preparation discs for sectioning. Chase Dental Supply carries the Meta Dental Corp line.
Key Takeaways
- The Meta Model Arch Trimmer #907 has a built-in exhaust port, stainless steel work surface and a safety switch that cuts power when the top is removed.
- Meta pin systems include Double/Twin Pins, Master Pin II (metal, plastic and single), brass and aluminum dowel pins, reverse dowel pins and carbide drill bits.
- Meta model base formers for plastic articulators come in small, medium, large, extra large and right or left quadrant.
- Meta diamond coated trimmer wheels come in 10 or 12 inch sizes and will not bend or rust like aluminum.
- Model preparation discs range from 0.17mm to 0.30mm thick for thin, clean saw cuts.
What does a model arch trimmer do?
A model arch trimmer is a small grinder that removes excess stone from the inside of the arch and around the palate and tongue area, where a standard wheel trimmer cannot reach. It shapes the lingual side of the model so dies are easier to access and the case is cleaner to work on.
The Meta Model Arch Trimmer #907 is a model plaster grinder with strong torque for fast cutting. It measures 10 in high by 8.25 in wide by 12 in deep, weighs 4.5 kg and runs at 100W on 110V/60Hz.
Dust control and safety features
- Built-in exhaust port for dust control.
- Wide, stainless steel work surface with generous venting for dust removal.
- Power output connection that switches a dust collector on and off automatically.
- Safety switch that disconnects power when the top is removed.
It ships with one fast cutting, non-clogging cylinder lathe bur (E 1/2) in coarse grit. See the Meta Model Arch Trimmer #907 product page for current details.
Which dowel pins should I use for removable dies?
Use a twin or double pin when you want built-in anti-rotation, and a single brass or aluminum dowel pin when your technique relies on a keyed or grooved base. Meta offers both styles, plus the drills and accessories to place them.
| Meta pin or accessory | Item # | Typical role |
|---|---|---|
| Meta Double/Twin Pins | #401 | Two pins in one, resists die rotation |
| Master Pin II Metal | #408 | Pin system for sectioned dies |
| Master Pin II Plastic | #402 | Plastic version of the Master Pin II |
| Master Pin II Single | #407 | Single pin version |
| #2 Medium Brass Dowel Pins | #403 | Classic single dowel pin |
| #2 Medium Aluminum Dowel Pins | #406 | Aluminum single dowel pin |
| Reverse Dowel Pins | #404 | For reverse pin techniques |
| Dowel Pin Locators/Protectors | #405 | Positions and protects pins |
| Carbide Drill Bits | #304-001, #304-002 | Drills pin holes in stone |
Placing pins accurately
Drill pin holes parallel to each other and centered under each prep so the dies seat and remove along the same path. Rubber end caps (#412) are also listed to protect pin ends.
Pin placement works best on a well poured, void free model. Our guide on how to pour stronger, more accurate dental models covers mixing and pouring technique.
Stock your model room in one order
Arch trimmers, pins, base formers and discs from Meta Dental Corp ship together from Chase Dental Supply.
What are model base formers and why use them?
A model base former is a rubber mold that shapes the base of a stone model to fit a specific articulator, so every model comes out the same height and fits the mounting plate. It saves trimming time and gives a uniform, professional base.
Meta Model Base Formers for Plastic Articulators come in small, medium, large and extra large full arch sizes, plus quadrant right and quadrant left. Choose the size that matches your arch and the plastic articulator your lab uses.
Your gypsum choice also affects how the base sets. Compare options in our Whip Mix Snap-Stone and lab stones guide.
How do you section and trim models during model prep?
Section dies with a thin disc or a fine saw, then finish the outer model on a trimmer wheel. Thin cuts preserve contact areas and reduce the stone you lose between dies.
Model preparation discs
Meta Model Preparation Discs are sold one per pack in four sizes: 4020 (40 x 0.20mm), 4030 (40 x 0.30mm), 4517 (45 x 0.17mm) and 4527 (45 x 0.27mm). The thinner discs make narrower cuts between dies.
Offset saw
The Meta Offset Saw Frame with Blade is a chrome plated steel frame with an aluminum hand grip for sectioning models. Replacement 5 inch pinned blades are sold in packs of 100.
Diamond coated trimmer wheels
Meta Diamond Coated Trimmer Wheels come in 10 or 12 inch sizes. With embedded diamonds, they cut faster, smoother and quieter than regular stones or abrasive wheels, will not bend or rust like aluminum, and are self-cleaning.
For mixing stone, Meta Flexible Mixing Bowls are rubber, autoclavable to 275F and come in four sizes. For more brands that support the model room, see the dental lab and office supply brands guide.
Shop the Products
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a model arch trimmer used for?
A model arch trimmer grinds excess stone from the inside of the arch, around the palate and tongue area, where a wheel trimmer cannot reach. The Meta Model Arch Trimmer #907 includes a built-in exhaust port and a safety switch that cuts power when the top is removed.
What is the difference between twin pins and single dowel pins?
A twin or double pin uses two pins in one die, which helps resist rotation. A single dowel pin relies on the shape of the base for anti-rotation. Meta Dental Corp offers Double/Twin Pins as well as brass and aluminum single dowel pins.
What sizes do Meta model base formers come in?
Meta Dental Corp model base formers for plastic articulators come in small, medium, large and extra large, plus quadrant right and quadrant left. Each is sold one per pack.
Why use a diamond coated trimmer wheel?
Meta Dental Corp diamond coated trimmer wheels have embedded diamonds that cut faster, smoother and quieter than regular stones or abrasive wheels. They will not bend or rust like aluminum and are self-cleaning. They come in 10 or 12 inch sizes.
How thin are Meta model preparation discs?
Meta Dental Corp model preparation discs come in thicknesses of 0.17mm, 0.20mm, 0.27mm and 0.30mm, in 40mm and 45mm diameters. Thinner discs make narrower cuts when sectioning dies.
Related Guides
Clean model prep makes every step after it faster. Shop the full Meta Dental Corp selection at Chase Dental Supply, or call 888-548-7582 or email sales@chasedentalsupply.com for help choosing pins, formers and trimmer wheels.
Ready to speed up model prep?
Order the Meta arch trimmer, pin systems and base formers from Chase Dental Supply.
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