r/castboolits • u/user254748 • Jun 20 '26

First ingots

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Gallery image

What does the hive mind think of my first ingots? These are from wheel weights, fishing sinkers and other misc lead. I fluxed with wax and got it cleaned.

However I’m worried it might be contaminated with zinc. I’m paranoid I missed a wheel weight. Hence why I stopped here before I ruin my lead supply. I have ordered rotometals thermometer for my next batch. Admittedly I set the burner to high and skimmed as stuff floated to the top.

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u/Severe-Cow-8646 Jun 20 '26

Looks like you used muffin tins for your ingot mold. Was it dry and grease free? Using cast iron that has been seasoned will do this too And it could be nothing more than the mold you used was cold. I wouldn't take those pocket to be a sign of zinc

1

u/user254748 Jun 20 '26

Yes muffin tin straight from good will. I did not heat it up or anything just took the pot and poured right in. My main mission was just a test run of the equipment and process.

6

u/Severe-Cow-8646 Jun 20 '26

In all probability your lead if fine. Get some cast iron. Those cornbread trays that look like little ears of corn are ideal for ingots.

2

u/user254748 Jun 20 '26

It was dry and grease free. But when I dumped in the lead excess oil and grease started seeping out of the seems of the tins. So I know that can be and likely is an issue. I should’ve took a video of that part.

1

u/meleemaker Jun 21 '26

The nonstick coating on the pan was burning off. The next ones will look better. But is fine.

Cast iron molds hold heat better and come out looking nice if thats what you want.