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View Full Version : Casting Tools Part 1



RayG
3rd Nov 2011, 01:37 PM
Hi All,

I was cleaning and de-rusting the casting tools this morning, so I decided I'd take some pictures before the paint get's vaporized next time.... :)

So, for anyone who has discovered that metal can be turned into liquid and shaped readily into complex shapes, here is a few ideas for various tools for handling liquid metal..

First crucible handling tongs..

http://www.backsaw.net/pics/Casting/DSCN0924.JPG
Lifting Tongs, are used to lift the crucible out of the furnace and place it in the pouring holder.

Next pouring tongs,
http://www.backsaw.net/pics/Casting/DSCN0923.JPG
These tongs are for smaller crucibles, note the thing sits flat on the ground, and the legs on the far end stabilize it. The radiation shield has a flat on the bottom so the crucible can sit nice and stably.
When pouring, one hand is just behind the radiation shield, and the other operates the cross bar to control the pour.


http://www.backsaw.net/pics/Casting/DSCN0926.JPG
Same as the smaller one, this time it's a bigger crucible and a bit more support, the little locking pin (made from titanium) is to allow you to turn the crucible upside down if needed.
Also the radiation shield is closer to the crucible, which is better for handling the heavier pours.


http://www.backsaw.net/pics/Casting/DSCN0928.JPG
Charging tongs, these are used to add additional stuff to the crucible.


http://www.backsaw.net/pics/Casting/DSCN0929.JPG
Skimmer, this is used to skim the slag from the surface before pouring, I have another that I'm going to use on cast iron, that has a small titanium plate for the skimming section, the last one (stainless steel) melted into a nice little blob when skimming cast iron.

Here's a bronze pour Josh and I did last year, showing the lifting and pouring tongs in use.

Bronze Pour - YouTube


I don't have dimensions on any of the above, if anyone is really interested I could make a few measurements, but since the critical dimensions are determined by the crucibles used, I'd suggest just make them to suit whatever crucibles you have.

One thing I would recommend, is that you try using the tools while wearing foundry gloves, before finalizing the designs. What feels comfortable with bare hands, can become unusable when wearing bulky gloves.

The procedure, is first to clear the area of trip and fall hazards, tie up the dog, lock the kids inside, set a safe boundary for any spectators, then do a few rehearsals of the entire process, while wearing all the safety gear, then and only then start up the furnace.


Next Installment, burners...

Regards
Ray

wheelinround
3rd Nov 2011, 01:59 PM
Hope you don't mind Ray I'll sit in on this one.

matthew_g
3rd Nov 2011, 04:15 PM
Yep I'm in also Ray....
I have been trying to get my head around casting as I have so many things I want to cast......
So keep the posts comming..
Matt