Re: [ATM] casting aluminum

[Jovian <joviansoftware@comcast.net>]

Jerry, I used to work at an aluminum foundry so hopefully this will
help. We typically poured aluminum for (honda enginge casings) at around
1400F If i remember correctly it first melted at around 1100 degrees F. 
A propane torch should be able to get up there but the but you would
also have to find a way to keep it at a constant temp. You also need to
skim the top of the aluminum with something just before you pour it
because of the oxidization of the Se and other elements which build the
strength into the original part. As a final thing to keep in mind pay
attention to the thicknesses in different parts of the mold as this will
effect how the metal flows and don't forget that aluminum shrinks when
it cools so if a thinner top part cools before a lower part the part
will be malformed. For this reason also build into the mold a place to
have extra aluminum for the main part to suck from as it shrinks. Hope I
didn't make this sound too complicated its not that bad really. Hope
this helps
Nick

On Sun, 2004-08-08 at 16:35, Jerry B. Hillman wrote:
> Hi All,
> I need to fabricate some small aluminum parts for a diagonal/spider design I
> am working on. Is it possible to melt aluminum in a small cast iron skillet
> using a propane torch as a heat source.  I have a damaged aluminum
> automobile oil pan that I can cut up for scrap aluminum. The parts I need
> are not large but are original design. I'll will have to make them. If I can
> cast the basic form, I can machine the rest with the tools I have.
> Clear skies, Jerry
> 
> 
> 
> 
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