rivarat
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since June 2016
Posts: 140
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Post by rivarat on Aug 1, 2017 6:35:41 GMT -5
This probably should be in the market place area, although it seems that I can't create a tread in there until I have 100 posts
Been playing with casting lately. It all started with a mold, shortly followed by a wax injector, a few more molds and now building a vacuum table. The problem that I have is that most casting equipment here in Australia is few and far between, not a lot of used equipment comes up. There are some vacuum casting setups for sale but I don't want to sell a kidney to afford them. Option 1 Buy a cheaper asian centrifuge. Don't know if I would be getting value for money there?
Option 2 Buy secondhand centrifuge from overseas, most likely from the US. There seems to a few pop up on ebay that would fit in my budget even with shipping included.
What's everyones thoughts?
Does anyone have one for sale? Also looking for molds, prefer for setting cabs into. pm details if you have some stuff for sale and hopefully be able to make a deal.
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Post by radio on Aug 12, 2017 8:25:07 GMT -5
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gemfeller
Cave Dweller
Member since June 2011
Posts: 3,775
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Post by gemfeller on Aug 12, 2017 15:20:20 GMT -5
I've used a Neycraft spincaster for years and it's a great piece of equipment. But it's spendy, even used as you can see. If you're just getting started I think you'd be better off with a basic centrifugal machine like this one unless you're stuck on the idea of a vacuum caster:
contenti.com/jewelry-casting-supplies/lost-wax-casting/casting-machines-furnaces/lucas-centrifugal-casting-machine
A machine like the Lucas has all the features of the Neycraft except an enclosure to protect against blown flasks and flying melted metal. That's easily remedied by mounting it in a small metal washtub or fabricating a sheet metal enclosure. If the vacuum table you're building is for vacuum investing, that would be a great start.
I built my first vacuum caster using an old refrigerator vacuum pump and a metal casting table I salvaged. I used it for investing (using a heavy glass jar instead of a bell jar) as well as for casting. It worked OK but I'd recommend a commercial -- and more expensive -- machine for ease of use.
Is it possible you're confusing the term "mold" for "wax model?" A model is the wax piece you burn out to create a hollow mold for the melted metal. I have hundreds of wax models in storage (I bought out the stock of a major jewelry supplier that was going out of business) but they're mostly for faceted stones. If you're patient I can take a look for cab models but I don't think there's a big selection. I think it's better to learn to make your own wax models for cabs because even calibrated cabs differ slightly in size and there's the problem of metal shrinkage to contend with in casting. Or you can cast a shank and base and smith up your own bezel to fit the stone and casting. Lots of ways to go.
Edit: I didn't read the small print in the Neycraft ad above and missed all the extra equipment being offered for $1,200 - looks like a great deal.
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rivarat
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since June 2016
Posts: 140
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Post by rivarat on Sept 2, 2017 2:52:29 GMT -5
I haven't been round here alot lately,haven't even cut a stone in the last 4 weeks. The Neycraft would be a great setup but out of my budget. The vacuum table is for investing and is basically the the same, refrigerator vacuum pump and a heavy glass jar.
I have been on a little bit of a spending spree (with my wife permission)and have picked up a ring expander / reducer, some more molds for wax injection, kerr centrifico caster, and a host of other bits and pieces. Still waiting for delivery for some of the items from the US.
I was referring to molds, as I have a wax injector. I'm not sure of my wax carving skills, haven't gone down that path yet but I'm sure I will at some stage.
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gemfeller
Cave Dweller
Member since June 2011
Posts: 3,775
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Post by gemfeller on Sept 3, 2017 16:22:16 GMT -5
Looks like you're setting up a very well equipped casting shop rivarat -- good job! Sorry for the confusion about molds vs. models but now I understand. The Kerr Centrifico is a time-tested machine and should do a great job for you. What are you using for burn-out? I'm trying to resurrect my own vacuum investing set-up. I used automotive filters to keep investment from destroying my old vacuum pump but they didn't do the job. I got a new pump and now I have to figure out a better filter system -- maybe dual in-line filters. In the future I think I'll also tape heavy paper "hats" around my flasks before vacuuming to prevent investment overflow during debubblizing. Have fun!
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rivarat
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since June 2016
Posts: 140
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Post by rivarat on Sept 4, 2017 4:52:46 GMT -5
At the moment I using a flower pot method for burn out, but keeping an eye out for a small kiln. I passed up a few casters before I settled on the Kerr, concerned about replacement parts
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Post by Rockoonz on Sept 4, 2017 10:57:19 GMT -5
rivarat I have some Kerr parts if you need any. I bought the remnants of a High School jewelry shop, actually from the High School I took the shop classes at just a few years back. Also have loads of tools for wax carving, alcohol lamps, stuff I haven't been able to identify. The spin caster is long gone so what I have is only useful to someone who has it. It will only cost the cost of shipping. If you're interested pm me and I'll get pics.
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Post by 1dave on Sept 7, 2017 6:25:24 GMT -5
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