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Easily melted metals
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Author:  EmptySoul? [ Tue 04-29-2008 4:14AM ]
Post subject:  Easily melted metals

Im working on an idea I had, but I need to find a metal that melts relatively easily i.e. with a propane torch or less, but I also need it to be fairly strong, and non toxic. I would also like it to be silvery in color. So any suggestions as to what metal I should use, and where I could find it?

Author:  ShadowCat38 [ Tue 04-29-2008 8:58AM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

non-lead solder, although, I am not too sure about its strength. The inherent properties of metals that melt at low temperatures kind of prevent them from being too strong, otherwise, they couldn't melt at a low temperature.

Author:  bagvwf [ Tue 04-29-2008 11:17AM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

What are you trying to do? It'd be easier to recommend a metal if we knew what you had in mind.

That said, lead or no-lead solder would be good if you're needing low, low heat (Bic lighter + spoon) and something easy to work, and with some firebrick and a welder, you could even use zinc, aluminum or even a low-carbon steel. Magnesium is very strong and very light, but to melt it you need a crucible and an inert cover gas (probably SF6) because otherwise that stuff will ignite, and it is NOT pretty to watch (well, actually it is, but not if your head's over the crucible).

Author:  EmptySoul? [ Tue 04-29-2008 3:54PM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

My project is for an earing. I need to be able to tread a small rod into it. By strongish I mean it dosent bend easily and wont let the treads strip easily. Ive thought about solder already, but its too weak for what I want to do.

Author:  bagvwf [ Tue 04-29-2008 4:07PM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

EmptySoul? wrote:
My project is for an earing. I need to be able to tread a small rod into it. By strongish I mean it dosent bend easily and wont let the treads strip easily. Ive thought about solder already, but its too weak for what I want to do.


Sterling silver's your best bet.

Author:  cjv998 [ Tue 04-29-2008 9:56PM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

Ooh...what about silver solder? Not sure how easy it is to come by though.

Author:  the naked prophet [ Wed 04-30-2008 11:35AM ]
Post subject:  Re: Easily melted metals

cjv998 wrote:
Ooh...what about silver solder? Not sure how easy it is to come by though.


Radio shack. Any hardware store with plumbing supplies.

Silver solder should do it. It sucks as solder, but it might work for what you want to do.

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