Someone has to check out just how convenient it is to produce cast aluminum parts from pla prints, especially if it’s as simple as it has been so far…
That’s a nice, simple little furnace. Have you succeeded in melting and casting aluminum, or is the proof-of-concept can it so far?
it is definitely a cheap exploratory probe of the techniques, starting with charcoal, and if things go well switch to propane and a larger volume burn area.
Judging by the dark or even cherry red color of the case-hardened steel rod, I’m reaching temperatures between 1300 and 1500 F. I had the blower on for about 10 minutes, consumed about 10 briquettes, and melted 2 beer cansin less then 3 minutes. As soon as I get a crucible I’ll make some ingots, and then attempt a simple part.
Anyone have a good idea for a first part to try? I don’t have anything specific yet, as I don’t know how the strength / dimensional accuracy will turn out. I’m thinking bottle opener, but it’s a bit cliche…
I’ve never tried it myself, but I’ve been told by multiple people who I would consider reputable that you’ll get good accuracy on the parts, the key is just to print at 103% in PLA (and get venting in the mold worked out so you don’t get trapped air, I suppose).
That seems to be the general consensus. I’ve just never handled / seen the process, so it’s a bit of a new experience.
nice crucible/furnace. A fresnel lense or parabolic mirror can give you the melt temperatures in an instant without the need for fuel. Just need to do it during daylight. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMfkgBvQ8ig&feature=c4-overview&list=UUQ9e0JHba7ApNz_-HL-p_6A
I’ve been thinking about this as a way of making lightweight aluminum nozzles for homemade rocket engines.
Wow! That would really open things up.
I have a foundry at home and have done this with ABS prints (mind the fumes). The castings turn out well, even better if you do some finishing to the print first. Congrats on your experiment!
This is an awesome foundry (just what I was looking for to do small hobby projects). The post title is a bit misleading. 1.) what to use as a crucible? 2.) do you just use greensand packed around a 1% fill abs print with a funnel so you can pour the aluminum in? Any tips would be awesome as I would LOVE to do some casting at home and use my printer to make the mold positives.
I didn’t mean to mislead with the title @matt_gardner , making the first fire was easy - I’ve not yet had a chance to attempt the next serious steps. I have a crucible, and also intend to use a 1:1 plaster of paris to playground sand mixture. I intend to test a few small parts with this charcoal fire, and compare the quality and strength, ease of use with propane, and overall cost.
Very cool. Thanks for sharing.