[Jewelry making - Article 01099] - Re: [Orchid] Casting small round bars

[Bruce Holmgrain]

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    Brian. I have found more difficulties in casting silver ingots than
    gold. I believe that the problems arise from the oxidation of the
    copper during the melt. I have learned to pay particular attention to
    the formation of oxides and tend to use a lot of flux, adding more
    during the melt. 

    I have my own method of treating the metal mold. After trying motor
    oil, WD40, "candle black" (soot) and who knows what else for mold
    lubricants, I have settled for olive oil. Olive oil will help develop
    a seasoned surface on the mold that consists mostly of carbon that
    will absorb much of the oxygen from the melt. 

    Many people forge the ingot in the beginning. I use the rolling mill
    to bring the round ingot square and anneal. I believe that this
    serves the same purpose. Works well for me, anyway. 

Good luck.
bruce


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