Prepping the Flasks for Burnout
After the investment dried, I take the tape off and cut down the investment so its just below the flask edge. This ensures a good seal and better vacuum. I then smooth the edges of the pouring end so it reduces the chance of investment breaking off during the pouring.
Pouring Molten Silver into Silicone Mold Rubber- Not Recommended
Silicone mold rubber will handle temperatures up to 850* F yet I'm asked "can silver, bronze, or gold with melting temperatures about 1700* F be poured into a rubber mold?" Although this was about 90% successful casting the mold was destroyed permanently. The fumes were awful so I strongly suggest not trying this without great ventilation system.
Video 4- How to use the Steamer
In this video, I show how a single flask is put in the steamer with the wax sprue facing down. This only works with the injection waxes since steam has a maximum temperature of 212* F and most carving wax melts above 300*F. This takes 30 mins and then the flask should be put directly into the oven for burnout when using this design. Once removed from the steamer dry off the water from the outside and write any information on the flasks so you know what it is when pouring metal.
Video 5- Casting the Skull Ring
I show how to use the Electro Melt to pour the sterling silver into the flask. Unfortunately, I did what was natural for me by pouring at my usual angle and blocking the camera. I will definitely do another pouring video with better camera position. Once poured and the vacuum released I set the flask on a safe surface to cool for about 7-10 minutes. Once cool it is ready to be submerged.
Video 6- Submerging the Flask in Water
I show how to submerge the flask in a container of water. Many choose to do this outside because of the silica that is in the steam. I am doing it in my shop with my head away from the bucket. I just duck it until it stops bubbling. Once done it is time to clean off as much investment as possible before putting it into the ultra sonic and pickle for further cleaning.
Casting with the New Vacuum System and a Propane Mini Oven
***Don't do this at home unless you understand the dangers of using propane indoors. Best done outside. Ventilation could be the difference between life and death due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Removing the flask from the oven and using a vacuum system to cast.
Investing the Little Flasks
In this video I show you how I invest two flasks at a time. You’ll also notice just how quickly this micro size system draws out the air. It is nearly instant so it doesn’t take anywhere near as long as a normal system. The vacuum pump is just a Harbor Freight 3 CFM 2 stage as there is little need for anything stronger. I allow the flasks to harden a minimum of two hours but often will wait overnight if it is getting too late in the day.
Casting- Kitchen Stove Burnout
In this video, I actually used my wife’s new stove top for the burnout test. It took roughly 65 minutes because I fumbled around with the melting and getting the flask onto the vacuum unit. However, it poured well and in the next video I show it being submerged. This was an epic success!