Do I need to worry?

[daengmei]

I bought a new 40lb smelting pot and it's really rough along the inside, especially the bottom. I'm not sure if it's just the black surface coating or also the casting itself, but it is very hard. Do I heat it up first to see what gives or should I use a handheld grinder with a finishing pad to clean it smooth?? Thanks for any advice!

[alfloyd]

What type of pot, Cast Iron, Cast Steel, Stainless Steel cooking, Aluminum, Steel pipe with welded bottom?
If it is cast, then you could smooth it some, and DO NOT BANG on it with the dipper.
If it is aluminum, DO NOT use it for smelting.

Lafaun

[daengmei]

Cast iron from Bufffalo Arms. I decided to get what is correct.

[R.M.]

I wouldn't worry about, unless it bothers you.

[Char-Gar]

Why should you worry about a pot you have never used? Use it and then if there is a problem, deal with the problem.

[bbqncigars]

The lead isn't going to care about interior finish. If you were cooking food in it, then a smooth interior would make it a lot easier to clean. For smelting/casting, don't worry about it.

[daengmei]

I thought stirring to release dross might be more difficult. I'll be using it to melt wheel weights and scrap pipe. See what I know.

[captaint]

I'm assuming you're new?? at this. If so, remember to heat the pot up slowly and with lead in it. Heat a cast pot up too quickly and they may crack. enjoy Mike