Chromium contamination of lead anode -- any problems??

[Wild Turkey]

A friend suggested I as my question here and I've already learned a lot about how much I've got to learn about casting but we gotta start somewhere.

I've got a lead anode, about 1-1/2" dia by 12" long, that was used for chrome plating the interior of railroad car bearings.

Will the residual chromium in the surface of the anode cause any problems when I melt it? I plan on neutralizing it first with a rusty iron solution (chromium likes rust!) first but no way to know how much will remain after melting (outside and downwind).

I will mix it with about 80 pounds of pure lead (from a counterweight) before I start learning about casting "boolits" for my .35 Marlin "Texan"

Thanks for any help!

[Rickf1985]

I would think the Chromium would just float to the surface with the rest of the garbage but for that small amount of lead mixed into 80 lbs. is it really worth the chance of contaminating the entire batch? 1-1/2"x12" can't weigh more than 10-15lbs.? If you are really desperate for that piece of lead then get a sharpened piece of steel and scrape the sides of the anode clean first.

[GhostHawk]

"Chromium has a melting point of 1907 °C (3465 °F)"

Don't think you need to worry about it. Keep temp below 700ish and you should have no issues.

[Wild Turkey]

get a sharpened piece of steel and scrape the sides of the anode clean first.

Better idea than my first thought of using a wire brush!


Thanks