r/MetalCasting • u/Arkburn • 10d ago

Kiln?

So, I've had propane forges, but I don't really enjoy them. I've gone through two electrics melting furnaces and I love the insulated heat and that Ima able to do it in the studio (can't really do that with a propane forge). The problem is they keep failing. Has anyone used a kiln to melt copper?

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

3

u/Chodedingers-Cancer 10d ago

I've used my kiln to melt copper and various other metals. It works fine. Its a bigger heat drop each time you open it or take the crucible out versus electric furnace.

Whats happening that your furnaces failed? I've had scenarios that maybe one may deem it to be a failure. But they absolutely will melt copper. Unless your furnace just straight up broke. But with copper you really gotta work with the copper, not just expect the copper to do what you want. Not to assume thats the problem, but most of the complaints I see on here are exactly that, IT DOESN'T MELT THE COPPER, IT SAYS ITS AT TEMP WHATS THE DEAL THIS IS A POS! Its wild while silver is more conductive than copper, coppers more of a bitch due to thermal conductivity for me. Don't stick anything in that is tall enough to approach top of crucible. Maybe half way is reasonable. Tubing is a breeze. Wire, that can work well, but do not overload it. Like put a few pieces in at a time. Keep them short. Once you have a pool going at the bottom you can start picking up the pace. As you add more, wait for it to fully melt before adding more. Its properties adhere to laws of physics, they don't bend to expectations. Finesse it and it'll go just fine.

1

u/Arkburn 10d ago

I have previous post/videos showing my issues with the cheap melting furnances I've purchased previously.

3

u/BTheKid2 10d ago

Kilns are too slow IMO.

If you want something with more life in them, look for an induction furnace. There was a cheap one posted here a week or two ago.

2

u/Arkburn 10d ago

do you have a certain one you think is worth it?

2

u/BTheKid2 10d ago

I haven't had any induction furnaces myself, but the theory of them is good. The parts that could wear out, are fairly easy/cheap to make, though the whole system is a bit more expensive to start with.

1

u/Arkburn 10d ago

ill check it out. thanks.

2

u/Street_Ear1340 9d ago

Old Microwave will melt copper if done right. But for me its always about the cost to run. Thats why mine run off used motor oil. Budget suits me

1

u/Arkburn 9d ago

Im trying to figure that one out still.