Microwave Melting of Metals

A "foundry in every kitchen". Special crucible construction techniques to make microwave smelting and casting workable. An all in one crucible and mold is made, the metal is melted in a very slightly modified (masking tape over vent holes) microwave, about 17 minutes for a third of a kilo of silver, then the crucible/mold is inverted to make the casting. Clever and appealing.

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[2005 Jan 24] [/do-it-yourself/metalworking] [#]

Replica Instruments

Antique scientific instruments like astrolabes, compasses, sundials, and armillary spheres reproduced, mostly in copper, brass, and bronze.

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[2003 Dec 05] [/do-it-yourself/metalworking] [#]

Fun with Molten Metal

A personal account of making a home foundary, starting with fashioning a crucible from a five gallon stock pot and ending with some castings. Very cool, but a couple of the steps don't provide enough detail, unfortunately.

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[2003 Aug 22] [/do-it-yourself/metalworking] [#]