First Casting
I finally got to pour my first casting. I admin, I hoped it would come out perfect the first time, but of course it wasn't. That's okay, though. It's a process.
I was trying to make two simple base plates, 3 x 6 x 3/4. There are many different parameters that could cause trouble and do. I hoped I had mixed the sand right. It has to have the right ratio of clay to sand to water. Too much clay, the steam can't escape. To little the sand won't hold. Too much water, the steam makes voids.
The metal has too be clean, with all the dross removed. I need to make a better scoop. I am using one of those thing you make shelves to hang on the wall with.
And, you have to melt enough metal. The weight of the metal in the sprue is what makes the metal fill the void.
So, I was making two plates this time, and the first problem I had was then I didn't have enough metal. It didn't fill completely and left gases and rounded edges. The plates came out dingy looking, and I wonder if there was too much dross left in. Also, all around the edged are pits. I think there wasn't enough pressure in the sprue.
Also, I didn't make enough vents.
Still, it poured well. I think I will try again Tuesday, but this time make only one plate.
I was trying to make two simple base plates, 3 x 6 x 3/4. There are many different parameters that could cause trouble and do. I hoped I had mixed the sand right. It has to have the right ratio of clay to sand to water. Too much clay, the steam can't escape. To little the sand won't hold. Too much water, the steam makes voids.
The metal has too be clean, with all the dross removed. I need to make a better scoop. I am using one of those thing you make shelves to hang on the wall with.
And, you have to melt enough metal. The weight of the metal in the sprue is what makes the metal fill the void.
So, I was making two plates this time, and the first problem I had was then I didn't have enough metal. It didn't fill completely and left gases and rounded edges. The plates came out dingy looking, and I wonder if there was too much dross left in. Also, all around the edged are pits. I think there wasn't enough pressure in the sprue.
Also, I didn't make enough vents.
Still, it poured well. I think I will try again Tuesday, but this time make only one plate.