Bismuth question

[Paul_R]

I'm having a hard time finding any useful info about bismuth other than using it pure as a lead replacement.

I'm want to make some 96-2-2 alloy. Starting with 98% lead with 2% antimony.

I have some 97% tin with 1.5% antimony, 1% bismuth, 0.5% copper. Is this amount of bismuth a concern?

TIA

[Cowboy_Dan]

I wouldn't worry about it. That would amount to .02% of the final alloy.

[runfiverun]

bismuth adds hardness to lead alloy in the way antimony does.
it just has a much lower melting point and adds more brittleness.
I wouldn't be afraid to use it up to 1.5-2% with a little antimony and some tin.
what your using [lead free solder] is not even gonna register on the scale unless your tin content is 20% or so.

[bangerjim]

Use it and don't worry about that teeeeeeeny bit of Bi. That microscopic amount will be of no consequence.

I have several Bi alloys and are very familiar with what it does in large amounts (30-50%) but 1% will not add much if anything to the overall mix.

Check this thread out I started. Seems nobody really cares about due the the few that read it. But it is extremely valuable info for those that care!!!!!!!

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?286270-NIST-technical-information-on-alloys

You DO need 2% Sn!

bangerjim

[Paul_R]

Thanks guys!

[John Boy]

At $6 a lb wholesale market, retail $15.00 a lb ... bismuth would be the last metal I would use in an alloy mix!

[bangerjim]

At $6 a lb wholesale market, retail $15.00 a lb ... bismuth would be the last metal I would use in an alloy mix!

Darn........and I have over 400# of it! The Bi alloy I use for antique reproductions melts at ~150F and can be cast in plastic and rubber molds! Great stuff......just not for silly ittle boolits.

bangerjim