First raw castings off the Solus

[ken3dcad]

A couple of minor pits on the bezel. Used old gold for another jeweler.
B9 cherry

[mongerdesigns]

Great results, Ken. Did you use any special burnout? Have you heard of vacuuming the flask before casting? It gets rid of remaining ash residue that can cause those pits.

[ken3dcad]

I haven't heard of vacuuming the flask prior to casting! That is a great idea.

[KennyB]

Can you explain what you mean by "vacuum the flask prior to casting"?

Do you mean place the flask upside down on the vacuum caster then release vacuum, flip it and cast as usual or are we talking about literally vacuuming with a vacuum cleaner before pouring?

Sorry if this question is stupid, I've done hundreds of castings but never with resin, only wax

Edit: I just read the post about the shop vac. I guess that answers my question. I can't wait to get my machine and (hopefully) become an actual productive member of this forum

[dcpattni]

Hello mongerdesigns,

may i know how vacuuming the flask before casting/pouring gold? .....can you show us Video or image?

As i'm complete new with Solus & manual casting machine..

Regards

Dipen Pattni

[Archerm]

If you are using the Emerald and Plasticast Investment you shouldn't need to vacuum the flask. 135-1400 will vaporize any residue in the cavity. Looks like the porosity on these castings is more from the lack of metal for the button to control the porosity and pits. I always do a 50% split or more allowance for the button. The button size is very important.

[Devlin]

To vacuum or not to vacuum?

Best test I have found is if you put a bad or extra resin model out side of the flask. On the floor of the kiln works fine. After the burnout cycle Before casting take a look and see if you have any ash . For me I see ash with cherry not so much with emerald resin. I vacuum and it certainly does not hurt. Everyone set up is slightly different. you have to try many variations to see what works best for you.

I just use a shop vac with a quick hit on the button area and then back into the kiln for one hour to regain proper temp. plastic vacuum end is not big deal.