[Jewelry making - Article 00114] - Re: [Orchid] Automotive hydraulic die forming

[kingsley]

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    Thank you Jesse Brennan! You are absolutely correct that there are
    some serious safety issues with the die forming advice that was
    given, both using PVC pipe to contain urethane in the press, which
    will shatter, and mixing flexane which is carcinogenic and extremely
    toxic. I have personally mixed a lot of flexane, written about it
    and taught people to use it, and want to state for the record that it
    is not advisable. There are sources for buying urethane now, and
    there is no need to expose yourself to toxic chemicals when mixing
    it. Urethane is a wonderful material to use in die forming. It is far
    superior to rubber. It doesn't wear out, and is worth the price you
    pay for it. 

    I also wanted to point out another option for hydraulic press frame.
    There are plans for a bolted-together press is in my book,
    "Hydraulic Die Forming for Jewelers and Metalsmiths," available on
    Amazon. The press consists of drilled steel plates, one-inch threaded
    rods, washers, nuts, spacers and springs. The top platten can be
    drilled to accept Bonny Doon tools. It is easy to put together and
    requires no welding. Steel isn't cheap, and the drilling should be
    done in a machine shop, but it is a safe and reliable design. One
    more thing. Messing with a hydraulic jack to add a gauge is also
    risky, dangerous and something you shouldn't attempt. There is a
    source for jacks with a gauge in my book. 

Susan Kingsley
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