Easiest way to cull zinc from WW??

[pilgrim5]

Any suggestions on how to cull zinc wheel weights from the lead? Just got a bucket about #70 pounds from NAPA a buddy there and has all manor of weights in it the soft lead ones and all the clip-ons.

Love to know what you guys do to get rid of the zinc WW in the mess? How to tell them from the lead weights?

Thanks in advance

[imashooter2]

When the lead melts the zinc floats. Skim them off the top. It's important to watch the temperature though. Don't turn the burner to high and go in to watch the ball game.

[462]

I go through all my weights and seperate the clips from the sticks and watch for any that are marked Zn and Fe -- zinc and steel -- and toss them, along with the cigarette butts, valve caps and stems, tire stickers, patches, candy wrappers, nails, screws, etc. When in doubt, I use a diagonal cutter.

Also, most zinc clip-ons have the clip riveted on -- toss anything with a rivet. Zinc stick-ons are usually quite a bit larger than lead and are painted. They won't bend.

After a while, you'll be a pro and will be able to tell which is which with just a quick glance.

[JeffinNZ]

I'm with 462 on this one. With practice you will spot Zn a mile away. Also, Zn makes a "chink" sound dropped on concrete. Pb makes a "clunk" sound. When in doubt, throw it out.

[kyle623]

lots of lead ww's are painted also, so thats not a give awaykeep youre smelt temp below 700 and they wont melt,but sorting first is the best way. sidecuts are a good way to test, zinc wont score very easy like lead. anything marked Zn or Fe toss, you gotta look for the rest.

[doghawg]

Some look like this............and some aren't marked at all. I use just enough temp and skim fast..

[ANeat]

I just skim mine as the lead melts. All the extra "organic" matter is good flux.

I usually smelt pretty large batches and have no desire to sort them.


Here is a 1/3 of a barrel of WW, I just shovel em in and melt ;)

http://www.castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=151&pictureid=832

http://www.castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=151&pictureid=830

http://www.castboolits.gunloads.com/picture.php?albumid=151&pictureid=829