Cool smelting setup

[lcarreau]

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8462401869733433909&q=bullet+casting&total=196&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=2

The video speaks for itself.

[craig110]

It is a nice idea, but I don't like his implementation of it. Take a look at the size of the lead chunks he removes from the chute! Using only three sets of quad 1 pound ingots compared to the long pour chute means he is probably wasting about 1/3rd of his melting energy on the lead that gets removed from the chute in solid form. (He can't pour while the ingots are cooling enough to be emptied and the lead in the chute freezes at the same time. Those "chute chunks" represent a lot of lead that has to be remelted.) I think you'd need two people to keep swapping moulds and enough ingot moulds so that some are being emptied while others are being filled to make this energy efficient.

[jawjaboy]

Cool! Gave me some cipher'n fodder. Dis ol boy heah a do them 8, one pound ingots a lot faster though. ;)

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g194/jawjaboy/IM000495.jpg

[lcarreau]

It is a nice idea, but I don't like his implementation of it. Take a look at the size of the lead chunks he removes from the chute! Using only three sets of quad 1 pound ingots compared to the long pour chute means he is probably wasting about 1/3rd of his melting energy on the lead that gets removed from the chute in solid form. (He can't pour while the ingots are cooling enough to be emptied and the lead in the chute freezes at the same time. Those "chute chunks" represent a lot of lead that has to be remelted.) I think you'd need two people to keep swapping moulds and enough ingot moulds so that some are being emptied while others are being filled to make this energy efficient.


Having done a few big melts with 'Slick, its good to have 2 people, but I will say that having that arm is a huge reduction in effort compare to scooping out liquid lead. If you had a fixed spout, ten you have to move full ingot molds around and risk spilling.

-Lonnie

[cohutt]

I found that just not having to bend over much or squat makes a huge difference in fatigue level, although i do get nervous with 2-300 lbs of molten lead too far off the ground. There are two concrete blocks under the 3/4" plywood, was very stable.


http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m284/cohutt/bermining%202/misc002.jpg

[MullahElRon]

You could chop then spouters up with bolt cutters and use 'em in the pot as is, neatness don't have to count. ZZ Top makes for some natural smeltin' music too.

[lcarreau]

if you are smelting 300 lbs of wheel weights, think of how many times you are lifting the same 300 lbs.

1) you have to lug it to the smelt site.
2) lift it into the put.
3) scoop it from pot into mold
4) dump the ingot from the mold
5) Lug your CRB treasure away

It can be a workout. 'Slick and I did about 900 lbs 1 day. I could feel the burn.

-Lonnie

[MullahElRon]

You and 'Slick be like 3 or 4 regular guys...

[copdills]

Yep thats a nice setup