View Full Version : Bismuth question
Paul_R
09-07-2015, 12:41 AM
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
09-07-2015, 01:20 AM
I wouldn't worry about it. That would amount to .02% of the final alloy.
runfiverun
09-07-2015, 12:09 PM
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
09-07-2015, 12:25 PM
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
09-07-2015, 04:35 PM
Thanks guys!
John Boy
09-07-2015, 07:10 PM
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
09-07-2015, 09:29 PM
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
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