A fluxing tool is used to apply powdered chemicals to the molten metal. It can be used with fluxes and de-gassers. The tool described can be used with metals that have a melting point up to and including brass. (i.e. Not for use with iron or steel)
Fluxing Tool:
A good way to apply small amounts of flux to the molten charge is to use a fluxing tool. You can make your own tool using either steel or stainless steel. Stainless steel is the better choice because it is less likely to contaminate the melt with scale, and will last much longer. However it is more expensive to buy the material and to weld it.
For flux amounts of 3 teaspoons or less (crucibles up to about a #8) you can weld a 3 inch length of 1/4 inch black steel pipe (O.D. = 0.540, I.D. = 0.364 typ for schedule 40) crosswise to the end of a 1/8 inch thick x 1 inch wide x 4 ft long piece of steel flat stock. This must be a welded joint, not brazed. Increase the dimensions as required for larger size crucibles.
To use your fluxing tool proceed as follows. Cut out a rectangle of newspaper approx. 3 in x 4 in. Picture "rolling 'ur own" cigarette or whatever. Hold the paper with the short dimension horizontal, and crease it about 1 inch up from the bottom. Measure in the appropriate amount of chemical, and roll up the paper just like an old time cigarette. Don't even think about licking the paper! Water of any sort in molten metal will cause an explosion!!!! Besides, you don't really want to find out what eating foundry chemicals will do to your health..... Place this in the tube of your fluxing tool and slowly push it to the bottom of the crucible. Be careful not to touch the sides or bottom of the crucible, and stir gently until all the gassing stops. Carefully remove the tool from the melt.
Page Updated: 9-18-01