Hi guys,
I have been reloading for a few years but am just getting in to casting. I recently picked up the following.
On a forum I frequent, most say this is monotype, a few say foundry type. What do you think?
Also found some lead sheet or roof flashing that I understand to be nearly pure lead?
I have read a lot on this forum and downloaded the Excel alloy calculator. I wanted to start with a small 5lb batch for my first smelting attempt. I also want to cast some bullets (or boolits) for 44mag. Missouri Bullets sells some 18 Bhn recommended for magnum loads so I wanted to create my own 18 Bhn. The Excel calculator suggested 2.35lbs monotype + 2.65lbs pure lead.
Using my Coleman propane camp stove and a cast iron pan I set out on my first smelting session. I'm happy to report that I did not burn anything, myself included, or spill any lead.
I'm not quite sure of my results however. Once my batch was melted I tossed in the only flux I had available: crushed walnut shells. Don't think I will do that again. It did burn but left tiny charred chunks and seemed to make things worse. I will get some sawdust instead. I seemed to have to scoop a lot off the top, it was frothy looking and did not want to mix back in. So I called it good after the surface was mostly shiny and i scooped off the gunk. I used a small non-stick bread loaf pan. I had used brake cleaner to clean the loaf pan and iron pan hours before my session. My lead loaf is not very smooth.
My dross and pan:
My lead loaf weighs 4.05lbs. Is a 20% weight reduction normal? The dross hunk weighs over 1lb.
I will need to get a thermometer and some better heat resistant gloves. I will also get some art pencils to try the hardness test.