POOR MAN’s CRUCIBLE - SIMPLE DIY $0.00 COST - MSFN

[@arcosin3861]

Story time! I made one of these like 4 years ago and I was doing some aluminum smelting. It had worked really well in the coal furnace the last two times, and me and a buddy were about to do a third burn. At this point, the steel was quite oxidized, but we weren't all that worried. We got it burning and started melting cans. Suddenly, the fire got much hotter and much brighter out of nowhere! It was so bright, it was hard to look at! The chemistry savvy among you may already know what happened... Iron oxide + aluminum + heat = thermite. Anyways, we turned off our crappy billows and let it burn itself out. In the aftermath we found that the whole bottom of the crucible had melted. As had the sand and plaster bottom of the furnace which had vitrified. Stay safe out there.

[@autohogar1016]

I recently has a similar experiencia. The still in the extinguishers IS not reliable.

[@BlackTigerFireworksOfficial]

This is crusible can survive for melting Magnalium?

[@thedoubleboiler6971]

Seriously. Thank you for no fillers here and just getting straight to the point. The average person tries too hard with informative videos when we just want to know what the heck to do.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

thanks!

[@rhondakendrick2563]

THANK U FOR THE INFO

[@Smitty65721]

I had a friend who lost 3 fingers when his angle grinder blade exploded. Absolutely a true story. Wear leather gloves, and a face shield, when using that cutting tool. That thing is spinning much faster than you think. You have been advised.

[@galavizK]

Thanks

[@lindboknifeandtool]

Roger that.

[@annagirlieee5290]

Good to know. And will do, as although you may find this a bit strange but I prefer NO disfigurement over some or any.

[@Smitty65721]

@@TheBestRoddy Wonder is my friend said the same thing?

[@malachite072]

Thank you. I am just about ready to buy what I need and this comment cleared up my mind lol. It's because safety is the thing I was forgetting about when scrolling thru vids and making my list.

[@PastorTonyManuel]

I'm glad you were up front and explained how they only last for a bit and then spring a leak. Of all the casting videos I've watched, I haven't noticed anyone explaining that they do not last very long.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

All crucibles fail at some point. Heat and contamination from the metals you are melting speed that process up. Consider homemade crucibles a "consumable". Be safe & happy casting! :)

[@wordsandthing]

thank you for not only showing all the steps, but for showing other things to use if someone cant get an extinguisher at first. i subbed, and i cant wait to start smelting.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks for the kind words and welcome aboard! Metal melting is great fun...be safe!! :)

[@BADD1ONE]

Your wing nut design for pouring is exactly how I pictured making mine. Love the lifter design, exactly how I'm going to make mine (probably from rebar). I have an unused bollard. Its at least 1/4" thick by 4 feet long. I'll cut it and get steel caps welded to the bottom. Many crucibles.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

aweaome

[@catsmoke5518]

Thank you for the clarification. Grant Thompson only glosses over the fact he used a fire extinguisher and mentions nothing of the size or making handles. Thumbs up from me for this one buddy...

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks!!

[@loganjonah9575]

You prolly dont care but if you are bored like me atm you can watch all of the new movies and series on InstaFlixxer. Been streaming with my gf lately =)

[@karsonmaximus3047]

@Logan Jonah Yea, been using InstaFlixxer for since november myself =)

[@noahjared1596]

@Logan Jonah yup, have been using InstaFlixxer for months myself :)

[@JonDeth]

*I've seen people building these for decades, always wanted my own and it looks like this summer I'll get to it.*

[@hrxy1]

Great vid,noshit music, simple language, direct and to the point.ty

[@justafanmarvel9669]

This was a really nice video glad you posted it.. Also I'm very glad that you mentioned that same extinguishers are made of aluminum.. I made that mistake on my first try, luckily I caught it as it was melting and was able to remove it. another thing I have used as a home crucible is a steel pipe nipple with a cap on the end.. this works rather well and lasts a while since its thick steel. Thanks again enjoyed watching this.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Glad you caught your error in time, coulda been worse! Many pressure vessels are aluminum such as some medical oxygen containers. Yes, black pipe works well...be sure & NEVER use galvanized pipe & fittings.tho!

[@justafanmarvel9669]

No yoy are right I forgot to mention that, yes only black pipe.. never galvanized, sorry took that for granted that people would know that.. wish I was in your neighborhood would love to stop by and see that sand casting demo you were talking about.. did you post it by chance

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

If ever in Tampa, FL let me know, you are welcome to drop by. No....I didnt get any video of the sand casting classes as those days are rather hectic & lotsa Q & A and making sure everyone stays safe. Just no time for camerawork. Subscribe if ya think the channel is worthy! :)

[@justafanmarvel9669]

+Makin Sumthin From Nuthin thankyou I will

[@stevenslocum2148]

Very awesome outside the box thinking loved it. This is exactly what I was looking for!

[@herooftime420]

We appreciate your wisdom. I'm going to cast aluminum rings with cubic zirconia. This helps a ton thank you

[@alan30189]

Nice. Thanks for sharing. I like the tool you made to pick the crucible up with.

[@Urobam]

What a great video! Just great video! Thanks for all the information, demonstration, and no music!😘😘😘😘😘😘

[@glennfelpel9785]

Thank you for sharing, sometime I hope to make a video and show how I make my crucibles, but I think yours is easier to make.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

YW...... I find them to be a cheap, easy & reliable crucible

[@truebeliever5233]

Thank you for the knowledge. I am a new subscriber. I have a question if I may? Have you ever tried to use two cylinders, a smaller, one inside of a larger, one with concrete or plaster and sand sandwiched between them to make a reinforced crucible? I would rather have you give me your experience and what may go wrong if you did then me wasting precious time making mistakes that someone already made. If you have them that you give me an answer I'd greatly appreciate it. Thank you so much. I learned a lot today.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have not tried that, interesting idea though! If you try it let me know the your results

[@TheSillentSniper]

Great little tools you made i am just trying to figure mine out, gave me some great starting points

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Glad I could help

[@wheelietime7062]

Can you do brass with that in coal forge from a campfire with a blower into it. I want to try that have lots of brass.

[@wheelietime7062]

I subbed.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Might be tough but worth a try!!!!

[@DimaProk]

Lucky you, getting free fire extinguishers. I think I'll end up making mine from steel round or square pipe and have my uncle weld the bottom to it. Love Frankenstein bolts idea :)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

That will work too! Now that I have a stick welder I will be keeping my eye out for some scrap pipe as well.

[@DimaProk]

My neighbors had two broken basketball hoop stands, I volanteered to "recycle" them and ended up with two main shaft pipes that are about 8 feet tall, at the moment I don't remember diameter but I think it's right size. I think you can find them at Craigslist for free.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Yup, thats a great idea. I get lotsa free stuff off craigslist for my projects. Happy Casting! :)

[@RedSeedlesslive]

Thanks for this!! I use those as tanks for. O2, argon, and nitrous, and now yeft another use!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Glad to help!

[@briandalrymple9986]

I got plenty of fire extinguishers. I used them whilst making rocket stoves for my Vanuatu friends. I never thought of smelting, but now I want to smelt the brass valves from the rocket stove outers which are lpg bottles, so I might use a used fireman’s breathing tank as it will be thicker. I enjoyed your video, many thanks 😊.

[@clearnews7344]

For a tipping handle you can drill a hole in bottom lip and attach any type handle with bolt and nut, clamp etc.

[@Stinow]

True. But it will propably also become hot. A detachable handle would be nicest.

[@808tui]

.....this is good for beginners , thanks nice video .

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thank you :)

[@bernardkapembwa2445]

Many thanks. Much appreciation to you.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks for watching!

[@JacobPratt-md8hb]

Thank you for this im going to watch everything you have on this subject. Do you have the poor mans furnace?

[@michaelsanchez8519]

great video. while on the subject of fire extinguishers, like you said, not all extinguishers are the same. Far safety reason, people should study FEs and learn which one has the rating for this kind of work. I just think safety is important. Great video again!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Michael, great point and thanks for commenting on it! :)

[@scharkalvin]

Propane cylinders work too. Be sure to empty the cylinder first! The bottom of those extinguishers have a lip, they are not flat. A hooked bit of rod could fit in there for a pour tool. I cut some propane cylinders in half with a hack saw, and a sawsall would work too, if you don't have an angle grinder.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Yep, they are a good size too 😊

[@trollforge]

I made 2 propane cylinder crucibles, and both failed on their 1st heat, before the aluminium was even 1/2 melted, so, I can't recommend them...

[@amydiesel1332]

Will an old empty propane tank work too?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

sure, the small ones will work as well, not as thick as extinguisher tho

[@christopherneelyakagoattmo6078]

I like that you took a few seconds to demonstrate the mock-up.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks, I have a newer video on making another crucible, its been out about 4 weeks...much better vid if ya wanna check it out. Consider subscribing! :)

[@pauliebaker2534]

I do the same thing with extinguisher, heat the top edge and bend it out in a spot . It gives a nice pouring spout.

[@gsambolin]

Great vid, found this by accident. Glad I did !

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

awesome!

[@goliath257]

Some great ideas there. Thank you sir.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

You are very welcome, I hope the videos I put out are helpful to others. Welcome aboard :)

[@supernatureza]

Good

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks for watching & Happy Holidays! 😊🎉

[@sgibbons77]

Excellent video. Thanks for the tips!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks & You Are Welcome. I appreciate ya watching!

[@elmoooo]

Interesting rig for the angle grinder @ 10:20 Maybe it is common but I see it for the 1st time. Is it comfortable for precise cuts? Isn't your left hand in the line of sight?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

best thing I ever made, is awesome

[@TheKNOTTYMAN]

I like the extension handle on the angle grinder

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Very easy to do, a bar & a bolt :)

[@AlEx-fx7dk]

wonderful video and description. did you cast that grinder handle bar yourself ?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

nope, made from materials from a baby carriage someone was throwing away

[@trapdodo1473]

Starts at 6:31

[@williamelliott8447]

Trap Dodo thank u

[@omarkhan2296]

Thanks bro

[@supabiscuit]

Thanks

[@viking1969er]

Thanks

[@mikefinto4048]

What I use is square tubing I find then for about $3 at the junk yard works better than fire extinguisher

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Sure, that would work great too. I get fire extinguishers free so.... 🤗🎉

[@tonebone4454]

Great video!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Tony! 😊

[@juanrivero8]

Would an empty propane container work as well, provided it had no propane at all left?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have seen others do it but personally I have reservations about cutting up any pressurized container that held flammable liquids. Vapors remain even if the liquid is gone. I wouldnt recommend it...

[@juanrivero8]

Thanks! I won't do it.

[@alfaradiation]

What if, just what if you pour water in a propane container to get rid of all the fumes that are perhaps still present?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I don't see a way to fully evacuate a 1lb canister of its fumes, others have used them. I will not. FWIW

[@alfaradiation]

Perhaps we have a different type of a canister/tank in mind. It was just a suggestion.

[@stankrieger3137]

Now that is simple and very easy to make. keep using the KISS method

[@joshruth133]

Great video

[@mikeramsey4565]

Very cool. I'm hoping to cut open some old big 20-25 gallon propane tanks to make a smelter. We have an old extinguisher that I have to check to see what it is. I'm thinking of making mine as long as I can so I can melt cat food cans at a time. How many melts can I expect to get out of one crucible? Also, do I have to add any sand/plaster to the propane tank walls or can I just use them as is? Thanks.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

How many melts depends on thickness of the extinguisher as well as how much heat you expose it to. You only need enough heat to melt the aluminum, no more...no less. I generally get a minimum of 8 melts and have gotten as many as 14 or so. My worst was about 4 melts but I cooked the crucible melting brass...LOL I have a vid on how I lined my furnace if ya wanna check my other videos....I dont use sand/plaster in my aluminum melting furnace

[@mikeramsey4565]

Thanks, I looked at the video and as you said you did line it. I was hoping to not have to do that so I wouldn't have to spend to much money, as I have all the other parts just laying around here and I don't know if I have any drill bits big enough to get through the lining for the pipe. I guess I'll have to open my wallet a bit =)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Dont get me wrong....you CAN use an unlined furnace...it will work but wont be as efficient on propane fuel usage, melt times will be much longer. Also, it wont have any protection from the heat and will eventually destroy the furnace over time :(

[@quixoticryan]

Super informative video. Thanks!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks!

[@mindofmadness5593]

Been using old cast iron pots with the handles cut off and bolts to lift/lower. They last a decent amount of time. I've burned right thru anything less in one or two pours and it's too dangerous to risk. No welding tools so I really do make something from nothing. Did buy a graphite to do copper in. Last years cast pot is done for I think and not sure I want to try it in my newly built melter so....

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Nice! Good luck with your new furnace!

[@mindofmadness5593]

@@MakinSumthinFromNuthin, thank you-I always appreciate your work. Waiting for new burner-today or tomorrow perhaps, built the furnace then issues with old burner right afterwards-decided to order a new one that uases air pressure as mine needed a blower and I am not intelligent enough to do one without.

[@fuzz2978]

Can i use a overflow tank with kaowool to make a smelter?

[@mikehilbig8280]

The solid bottom plywood base would be better if left off to improve and not restrict the cooling airflow for the transformer. The base of the welder is large open screen for that reason. I do like the wheels mounted on the front vs. the back, as you can wheel it closer to the wall and easily retrieve it back out.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Good to know, thanks! My 1st welder....

[@209chevymon]

Can a crucible be made out of the little gas tank in the background i have a couple left over of those thats why im asking thanks for the help

[@doyoucomply8770]

Just subbed 👌love the way you explain and the editing love from the UK

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Zack! Cheers from across the pond! :)

[@spenchai4729]

Great video mate really enjoyed it

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks, hope it helps give ya some ideas 😊

[@RustyNail5856]

very nice video, great info. thanks for sharing.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Rusty

[@americasfavoritehoarder]

Thanks for the ideas.

[@4WorldPeace2]

Would the crucible grave yard be slightly less populated if you were to rotate the crucibles while inside the furnace so the propane burner isn't always focused in the same spot every time? Maybe rotate the crucibles by 90-degrees per melt?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Every little bit helps! Great suggestion! : )

[@Leads4Free]

Great video :)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks!

[@masonparker4473]

great video man you saved me 60$ once again

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Sweet. The aim of the channel is to do things "on the cheap" when it's feasible :)

[@jr.patriotswrestlingclub5768]

If I was trying to melt a little bit of gold like 5 or 6 grams can you use half inch black steel gas pipe cap as a crucible? And if you can will the gold stick to the steel cap inside?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

You could but not recommended, use a cheap, small ceramic or graphite crucible for precious metals. It will likely stick unless you use plently of borax as a flux

[@David-fv7zg]

I love your frugality. So, what can you do with the top of the extinguisher?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I used one the other day as a funnel when I changed my oil in my truck! LOL :)

[@David-fv7zg]

+Makin Sumthin From Nuthin That's the first thing I thought of, a funnel. Good stuff, thanks for sharing this.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thank you for watching Dave, consider subscribing if you haven't already :)

[@bigted1953]

@@MakinSumthinFromNuthin could you weld feet on the part you cut off and use it as a crucible if you put a pipe plug in it or welded something over the inlet?? just curious

[@clearnews7344]

For heavy duty crucible use industrial gas tank.

[@xXUNKNOWNXx]

a full one

[@wrathmachine7609]

@@xXUNKNOWNXx For better results

[@trollforge]

I have a CO2 tank with a bent valve. I'm going to make a yard bell out of the top 2/3s, a crucible is an excellent idea for the rest!

[@richyearle007]

Cool...You got me.."poor man" being the key words..Nice work...Wow hey 37 dislikes,you have your own hate club.It's a sad world lol.You could not get any better explained than that..Cheers

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Yup, me gots haters I guess. What did I ever do to those folks!? LOL

[@richyearle007]

Maybe they wanted 4K video with some background music.It may be that you talk funny with that American accent and you say Aluminum (Al oom inum) instead of Aluminium(Al you min ium)...Jokes LOL..Who knows.Tell me,do you think it is worthwhile collecting aluminium cans to melt down?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have melted down plenty of Aloominum cans and the ingots suit my purposes just fine. Its not top quality aluminum alloy like car rims or previously cast aluminum like lawn mower engines but if ya toss back enough Fosters you can amass quite a pile over time. LOL :)

[@richyearle007]

I am a Tooheys man myself,but i get the idea..lol...I only just realised you replied.I was thinking i still have not heard from that Aloominum fellow,i hope i did not upset him.I was just about to apologise..Good to see you have a sense of humour. It has been my experience that my humour is an acquired taste.I hate when these spell check programs keep wanting me to spell American,as in apologize,realized,humor and Aloominum LOL......You have that many interesting videos,i'll be back mate.Have a good day..Cheers.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I switched from bottled beer which I have drank my whole life to cans ever since I built the Aloominumb furnace simply to get xtra stuff to melt down. I have a healthy sense of humemour and dont get offended easily...I also realize that I have viewers from all over the world that have funny accents and spell words funny...but I dont hold that against them! HA 😜

[@ethanbaylis5204]

Just come across your channel and I love it, you earned a sub

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Ethan, your subscription means a lot to me. Sometimes I question if my videos have value to others. I appreciate ya! :)

[@z0m123]

My extinguisher has a plastic cup on the inside should I burn it of or scrape it out

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have never seen a plastic cup in one.....it needs to be removed somehow. I would avoid melting it out as it may leave plastic residue

[@ErikPearson22]

about how many firings can you get out of this kind of crucible? I'd be using it in an electric furnace to melt aluminum

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Given the gentle heating nature of an electric kiln I wouldnt be surprised if you were to get 15-20 uses out of one of these...possibly more...speculation on my part The harsh environment of a propane burner heating the crucible unevenly is what causes these to fail prematurely. The most I have gotten is around 12 melts but usually 8-9 is the long term average Please share your results if you use one. Thx

[@ruthdoyle9085]

Why not a smaller steel inside a larger steel one? Would the inner one last longer?

[@stevenanderson7046]

Thanks for the video. What does eg 6-8 melts mean? Is 1 melt a single heat/cool cycle, doesn't matter how long it's hot and how much aluminum is melted while hot? What if you cool the crucible down slower, will that extend lifetime?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Is 1 melt a single heat/cool cycle - YES It is the heat cycle that is the issue, not cool down time, the aluminum is also slightly caustic to the steel and degrades it

[@virtualtools_3021]

I've used soup cans for aluminium, if you are careful with handling it you can just about get 1 pour out of it. (charcoal furnace)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

yep

[@AG-xi3yu]

how would i make a lid for this crucible. great vid!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

have never seen a lid used on a crucible, it is not needed

[@charlesnissen1922]

I love the video, but where/how do you get your free fire extinguishers? I watched the video through and through, but I haven't seen any free ones near me.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Fire extinguisher companies have lots that cant be recertified for use :)

[@trollforge]

I have 5 in my shop that I picked up off the side of the road on garbage day...

[@beavis8167]

Awsome, I just watched ur making of a foundry and i have been melting for a couple months now. I liked the idea of U using Perlite an Portland cement so i cut my self a propane tanke for my foundry and i used 60 percent cement and 40 percent perlite i HOPE I DIDN'T MESS UP BY DOING THAT ILL KEEP U INFORMED. Its still curring. But i like ur videos alot u explain things well u keep things simple ect not like most of youtubers on this subject. Keep making more videos say if u try to melt steel so us, just saying lol. but keep up the work dude.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks DJ, its comments like that that keep me making vids. Wish I got more comments on some of these vids to get a conversation going about casting. Great Hobby! :) The perlite is what gives the mixture its refractory capabilities but keep me posted on how 60% works out. For the first few firings once FULLY DRY (dont rush it), it needs to be fully dry so there is no chance of a steam explosion blowing apart the furnace. The 1st firing needs to be on the lowest propane setting you can manage without the flame going out and for just about 5 min, slowly increasing burn time and temp between firings. 5 firings or so is sufficient IMO, then its ready for melts. This purges any excess moisture still in the refractory. Feel free to check out some of the casting videos I have and hope to see you as a subscriber! :)

[@chrispatterson9689]

Just imagine if u had a drill press. Btw You helped me out a lot thank you.

[@byrongonzalez8792]

How much does grinder cost? And welder?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

grinders are cheap, used welding equipment also very reasonable

[@jondoes8222]

What about 1/2 inch thick pipe for brass melting? How long would that last?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Longer than an extinguisher!! Depends on the heat its exposed to! Thanks for watching & Happy Holidays! 😊🎉

[@jondoes8222]

@@MakinSumthinFromNuthin Yes Merry Christmas to you.

[@ThePepper1976]

Frankenstein bolts hey... nice ty good idea

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks!

[@Phantomoose]

Thanx for the great advice nice vid

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

YW!! Thanks for watching & Happy Holidays! 😊🎉

[@kamisama9715]

Simple DIY $0.00 cost Materials required: *Rock from Pluto*

[@andrewferg8737]

Very informative. Thanks for sharing.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

My pleasure!

[@andrewferg8737]

@@MakinSumthinFromNuthin Found a cast iron CO2 extinguisher. Really hard to remove the top. Needed a blowtorch & 2' wrench. Used it for an air compressor tank.

[@ifitaintbroke7427]

Awesome idea. One thing I might do differently, well actually just add to what you've done. Would be to hit one end that's 90° out from the bolt holes outward. That way you give the molten metal to sure path from it. Would just allow for easier and more accurate pouring.

[@kirbyammonsjr8491]

How would you add a spout?

[@babyreps365]

Genius. thanks I'm doing that tomorrow

[@panzerofthelake1623]

I found a 40x40 mm diameter graphite crucible online, what exactly is the size of a 40x40mm diameter crucible? Is it the size of your hand or what and what can you possibly put in it to melt?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

25mm is about an inch....so its rather small. Those are usually used for precious metals as they wont hold a whole lot

[@chrisgaylor4024]

brand new to the metal melting.. so i have a graphite crucible, just wondering about the procedure for cleaning it. once i melt and pour the metal, do i clean it while ots hot or when cold and whats the best way to go about it.. thanks for any info..

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I think you will find a pure graphite crucible rather easy to clean out as not much aluminum will stick to it. If its a clay/graphite crucible you can use something fabricated that resembles a bent spoon to scrape out remaining metal and dross while its still hot

[@reacaoanimada9455]

will it holds for copper?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Yes, I have done copper but the heat will reduce its life, use a clay/graphite crucible if wanting to melt a lot of copper

[@kermit368]

What's a good thickness for a crucible? I was using one of those green mini propane tanks as I have access to them in abundance. They seem as thick if not maybe a little thinner than an extinguisher...Well I got one burn out out it before the bottom flange stand started to flake and crumble. On the second burn it failed. I probably got it too full and frankly just too hot. Was glowing a lot more this go around. Went to check the level and it was all trash. A look on the side revealed a pool of molten aluminum oozing out. Back to my question, I was thinking about steel casing, but don't know if it will be too thick and not worth the time to use and maintain a good internal temperature. I want it wide enough to scoop the trash out while I'm working so I don't have to do several pours on one ingot. And as I'm using a lot of aluminum cans, there is plenty of trash in my first burn.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Are you using a charcoal type furnace and an air source to superheat the furnace? I will address your questions once I hear back from you.

[@kermit368]

Yes, It's just a brick foundry. Octagonal shape about 18" high, I just used some extra 6" paving bricks I had lying around. For now I'm using the blower motor out of an old hair dryer through a 1 1/4" pipe.(only one side for now) I was using traditional grilling charcoal briquettes when it failed and I think I had it too hot as the blower was at max speed, though I did not check the temp. I know that charcoal has a higher energy value and burns hotter more consistently than wood thanks to the additives. But also read it's not as hot as lump wood charcoal? Not sure what the best source for burning goes (charcoal traditional, lump, or just wood) as I'm new to this and only doing small projects for now...so trial and error is expected. But it's fun to be working on something that doesn't require a grinder, welder, or planer for once. So I may end up investing in a better (propane) foundry and just ordering a few graphite crucibles online. Will for sure be picking up a non contact thermometer in the near future if you have any recommendations on them, or any other temperature gauges.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

The reason why I asked about the fuel source is that charcoal and even wood furnaces get wayyyyy to hot for melting simple aluminum, especially with forced air (hair dryers) and other blower units. Overcooking steel crucibles causes them to fail prematurely...even mine fail but I just replace them cause I get the extinguishers free but not everyone can do that. The green propane tanks are really thin...I bet they dont last long. If you plan to do it a while...construct a propane fired furnace, invest in a clay/graphite crucible and for temp control use a K-Type Thermocouple. I have videos on making furnaces and burners, the rest is up to you. Move away from charcoal and wood....go propane :)

[@CraftedChannel]

The 1lb disposable propane bottle in the background looks like a candidate. Are they as thick as the fire ext?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have heard from others they arent as thick as a fire extinguisher but have seen a few people using them in some vids. Thanks for checkin out the channel Dave :)

[@CraftedChannel]

Makin Sumthin From Nuthin You were my morning surfing breakfast. Did 6 to 8 of them. ;-)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Nice :), I thought Tom Chitwood sent ya over! LOL ! He is a subscriber....has mentioned you to me. I am glad you dropped in here 👍🏼

[@CraftedChannel]

I've been seeing your comments around and on my video's so I thought I would check you out. I want to get into casting. I don't have many of the pieces yet. I have started collecting blacksmiths tools. I'm dancing around the edges. ;-)

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have seen you ram up a mold at your buddy's place....You are halfway there! Even you ever need any help let me know :)

[@pheenix42]

Free fire extinguishers? Lucky you!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I like free! :)

[@AlexOvechkinSucks]

Why so lucky? Aren't they good as scrap metal once they've passed their due date?

[@timkarlsson2921]

Can you use that crucible to melt copper, i want to try to make bronze

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Sure, I have melted copper in these :)

[@timkarlsson2921]

Makin Sumthin From Nuthin OK thanks for your answer, now I know that I can make bronze with it

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

The extreme heat will takes its toll on these so shorter shelf life tho

[@timkarlsson2921]

Makin Sumthin From Nuthin ok

[@TheSkaireKrowe]

I'd be curious as to the reuse ability ratio (per pour) between aluminum and a higher melting point metal like copper or brass with these extinguishers as crucibles. Essentially, is it worth trying these crucibles with copper or brass pours or would you stick to aluminum?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have melted brass in an extinguisher crucible that was new but it truly cooks them good. You may get 2-3 melts if lucky. They are good for aluminum if you dont go overboard using forced air with your propane...I avg about 8-9 melts doing aluminum before needing to replace them

[@TheSkaireKrowe]

That is helpful to know your experience with some of the other metals. It looks like it may be more economical to reserve these to strictly aluminum and save the copper or brass pours for maybe a graphite purpose based crucible. Enjoying your foundry videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

You took the words right out of my mouth :) Thanks for watching!

[@l0I0I0I0]

@@MakinSumthinFromNuthin Can you coat the FE with graphite powder and high temp expoxy mix to extend life? Cost a little more but if it doubles the life, you end up with less work and cost less. Idk

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

6-10 uses for aluminum 1 or 2 for brass/copper

[@lucianoguerra9013]

Thank You Loader. I'm not free yet but I can't wait to be on my own. Now I need to know how to make a poor mans furnace and would a small propane tank or a large one when it comes to metal aluminum?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I have a video on how I made my furnace

[@jo3lsilvaracidesigner946]

good job!

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

They get the job done! :)

[@clongshanks5206]

I know it’s an old video, but where could I find old/depleted fire extinguishers?

[@lukecarter8100]

Very nice.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Thanks Luke :)

[@dekurvajo]

Hi! Thanks for this simple but great video. I am about to buy an electric furnace. The reason i would like to use a crucible like this is because the volume. I am not sure, but i guess there will be less damage to the crucible compare because in the electric furnace there is only heat, no flames. Funny thing is that, the graphite crucibles here are not very expensive, but we can not buy propane furnace here, and i am not confident enough to build on my own yet. So my question is do you think this kind of crucible would stand longer in an electric furnace?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

For the reasons you stated I think these would fare better in an electric since you can dial in an exact temperature. Propane furnaces can get up to 2000+ and overuse of propane can cook a steel crucible quickly. I have videoes on making furnaces and burners if you care to take a look. Where are you located?

[@dekurvajo]

Thanks a lot. Yes the e-furnice comes with a thermostat, which is indeed a nice feature. However the max temp is 1200 celsius. Its gonna be ok up to aluminium and its alloys, but copper and brass?... i am not sure if it will be very efficient. The 2000+ you mentioned is F or C regarding the Propane?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Fahrenheit is what I was referring to. Your furnace seems good, only use whats needed to melt the metal you will be working with. 1300 F is a good pouring temp for aluminum. Best of luck, consider subscribing :)

[@dekurvajo]

:) yep, i did. I'm pretty sure there will be a lot of question later, because i like to know and understand what i am doing.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

I reply to all comments so feel free to ask! :)

[@johnharvey1693]

I have a ton of brass shell casings, will that work for brass??? J

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

all day long

[@Alpatriod]

i melted a crusible made out of a THICK extinglisher and it melted through. i found a automatic water bowl for cattle made of cast iron and thats what i use now. i use a 55 gallon barroll use wood and a shop vac

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Glad U found what works for ya. Wood or charcoal combined with forced air generates way too much heat to simply melt aluminum. Thats why blacksmiths using coal can forge weld steel cause it gets so hot. Can melt aluminum without the air with wood or coal. Thanks for tuning in! :)

[@jondoes8222]

Cast iron 2 gallon pot works for me.

[@taylor5263]

i used a steel crucible from a fire extinguisher for over a year doing at least 2 casts a week it actually started to warp due to repetitive heat cycles before it popped a hole, since then i havent done anymore casting until last weekend when i built a new more efficient foundry that runs on a waste oil burner with a graphite crucible, from what ive been told and read they work better, last longer and dont contaminate your metal so is there any particular reason you dont use a graphite one aside from cost? if anyones interested the video of my new foundry will be up on my channel tomorrow

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

They are good starter crucibles for the home hobbyist. I plan on doing cast iron here soon in my mini brass furnace, will buy a clay/graphite crucible for that. Thanks for sharing, will check out your set up once you have your vid up :)

[@taylor5263]

Thankyou unfortunately my blower kicked the bucket just as i was about to film the melt so im running on propane in the video

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Waste oil burners are interesting devices, I have mucked around with one I made. I need to take it off the top shelf and utilize it more :)

[@panzerofthelake1623]

Is a sizzling plate(made of cast iron) good enough material for crucible??? Plus its thick.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

It should work ok, give it a try :)

[@panzerofthelake1623]

thanks

[@dudleydo-right2853]

Have you tried the frying pan yet?

[@khawk7365]

Have you tried coating inside with boron nitride it will protect the steel from corrosion

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Nope, never tried it. Sounds interesting tho 😊

[@mjbconsulting-inc2086]

Have you tried, or thought of using a steel bolt inserted into the top threads of the fire extinguisher? That way you get 100% more of sumthin from nuthin if the top portion can also be used? Dome shaped bottom, but could you weld a hook onto the bolt inserted into the threads and assume it would stand up straight in the fire box? "Jusaskin", great video.........

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

The top portion can be welded to a steel plate if the cut is accurate and be used...but I get these free...so just move onto the next one when they fail. I wouldnt trust threads to hold molten metal

[@ke6bnl]

is thicker better for the crucible??

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Yes, thicker is better. You may not get thru the first melt using a soup can. I find these convenient to use

[@graemeallen3893]

Good job buddy ,I just picked up 10 extinguishers for $10. I intend to eventually melt gold and I don't think a stainless steel crucible would be used for the amount of heat, but I are just starting to get a bit of metals to play with. Copper, brass,etc and someone said I should be able to use each one at least 5-6 times before making another one. Do you think I should make a clay or one that was more likely to last for higher temperature metals. I are going to make jewellery and I have never melted anything down as I are going to do it as a hobby. I have seen a few you tube videos of making a good crucible using a mix of Paris of plaster with sand or would you recommend a professional one made from the best material you can use?.

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Stainless can be used for a crucible. Use the steel ones for aluminum & brass. You will find the higher melting temps for brass will cause reduced extinguisher crucible life. My average is 5-8 melts of aluminum using extinguishers....less for brass. For gold invest in some smaller graphite crucibles specifically for the gold. Dedicated ones for gold only....or silver only. Small Graphite crucibles & lifting tongs can be found on ebay

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Avoid making your own....I have tried....and failed 😊 Avoid plaster altogether

[@nickgibbs4692]

Would an old oxygen tank work also?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Depends....most medical oxygen tanks are made of aluminum, the kind people with medical problems lug around. An oxygen tank from a welding environment would be fine.....just stick a magnet to anything you use....make sure its steel ~ Rich

[@nickgibbs4692]

Makin Sumthin From Nuthin thank you!

[@philipt1247]

What kind of bolts do you use? Stainless grade 8 or just steel?

[@MakinSumthinFromNuthin]

Any type of steel bolt will do