Things have come to a temporary halt on the casting front as my gas bottle has run out of gas . So I put it in my backpack (its awkward to carry and heavy-ish) and set off for the garage on the top road to swap it for a full one , I got there and found they had moved the safety cage they keep them in , on enquiring were they kept them now I was told - "we don't do them now - to much hassle with health and safety and we never sold many" ! - BLAST ! . So I'm going to have to find another supplier .
I have done quite well in getting the next unit cast up seeing it's being very hot and so not pleasant slaving over a hot mould. The venting I did on the moulds seems to be working, but the metal I'm using is a bit rough but we are getting there.
Bad luck..... I daresay gas stockists are getting fewer nationwide, the legislation and cost issues outweighing the desire to provide a decent service.
ReplyDeleteYes most caravans now use electric link ups , the building industry still uses bottle gas though.
DeleteWhen I started casting I used gas for heating and a ladel- later I purchased a 'LEE' Electric Pot- the 'LEE' is for making Bullet Heads and the US Product can be found at most Gunshops. The 'LEE' makes for vary easy-no mess- casting.
ReplyDeleteYes you can buy electric pots from Prince August I believe , I also have an electric hob - but it takes forever to heat the metal .
DeleteThe 'LEE-Pro' melts the metal at variable electrical settings- and it pours from the bottom of the pot via a simple hand operated valve built into the machine- absolutely ideal for casting up to 54mm Toy Soldiers etc. Cheers. KEV.
DeleteTru a solder pot.
ReplyDeletePrince August sell them - but simialr are available in ebay - and cheaper from HK/China.
I have a 350W version which is great, however you do need a lot of metal in the pot as you have to be able to scoop out.
Steve
Have been able to get another replacement gas bottle so back in production !
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