Month: November 2012

How to Fix Broken Pot Metal With a Blow Torch

The term pot metal (also known as monkey metal, white metal, and die cast zinc) refers to any alloys that are inexpensive, have a low melting, and can produce a cost effective casting. These metals include zinc, copper, tin, lead, magnesium, cadmium and iron. Due to the low melting point of these metals, high tech and costly foundry equipment is not necessary. These alloys are used to make toys, electronic components, some furniture fittings, and many other products including car parts. It is also used to experiment with moldings before a final product is created with more expensive metals. White metals are popular due their cost effectiveness but repairing them is not as easy as producing them. The low melting point which makes the metals inexpensive to use also makes fixing these metals with a blow torch quite difficult.

While using a propane torch to fix broken metals may be difficult, it is not impossible. There are a few things the welder must know before attempting to repair any monkey metal. First the person behind the torch must be trained in its use safely as it can be very dangerous piece of equipment. The operator must know how to operate the supply valve properly to ensure they the use correct temperature but they must first be educated in the exact temperatures for the types of metal with which they are working. After being schooled in proper torch execution for the particular metals the actual repair can begin.

Monkey metals have melting points that vary from 610 to 1600 degrees Fahrenheit which can make repair difficult as it may reach the melting point before the repair is complete. This is especially true when working with aluminum. Recent developments in heated metal repair have produced a product known as Super Alloy 1. This rod melts at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bonds at about half the melting point of most white metals. Its honey flux turns brown telling the welder when it has reached the proper temperature for bonding. The finished product can be plated or polished and is as strong as the base metal making this an inexpensive and effective way to repair zinc metals with a torch, even for an inexperienced welder.

Pot metal repair was once next to impossible and can still be difficult without the proper tools and knowledge. It is important to first know what kind of metal you are trying to repair so you know what the proper tools for the job are. Research the types of rods best used in your torch for the type of metal you need to repair and make sure the repair is necessary and cost effective; it may be more plausible to sell it as scrap and buy a new item. If the item cannot be replaced easily or cost effectively and repair is the only way to go all you really need is a blow torch and Super Alloy. If you are still hesitant to make the repair at home there are always professional welders that are skilled and knowledgeable in white metal repairs and would be happy to help you for a marginal fee. 

This is a guest post by Vit Marks

  

Things to Consider When Purchasing Platform Beds

Sleeping inside a small bedroom can be quite challenging for certain individuals, especially since fitting the bed inside the room is already a complicated task.

For some, the bedroom is also a place where important things are stored and for this reason it is also important to set aside an ample amount of space. This can be easily achieved with the use of platform beds that have open spaces underneath.

Before making a purchase, there are a couple of things that should be considered to make sure that a bedroom with enough breathing room will be attained. First and foremost, interested individuals should check the dimensions of their bedroom to make sure that the right size of bed will be bought.

Platform Bed Black Finish

A tape measure can be used to make sure that the room dimensions will be properly derived. This is an easy task for those who already have an idea of what they will keep inside their bedroom.

It should be noted that there should be ample space where users can easily walk otherwise, the room will be cluttered and a sense of relaxation will not be obtained each time it will be used.

Homeowners or even renters who wants to store certain commodities inside their room may find platform beds beneficial since important items can be placed underneath without worrying about a thing. They can also purchase huge boxes and utilize them as compartment facilities for the things that they need to store under their bed.

Alternatively, interested individuals can put drawers under their bed to achieve a more stable solution. They can use them together with extra wood or even aluminium panels for this project.

The whole process should pose no problem for those who know the basics of carpentry. Instructional videos that can be watched from the Internet can be helpful for those who want to perform it the do-it-yourself way.

All in all, getting a bedroom that is well spaced is ideal for those who want to obtain maximum convenience and relaxation is easy because of platform beds. They can check the Internet for product descriptions since this can make the
buying process more hassle free.

Also, seeking the advice of experts can be beneficial since some bed models may not suit the preferences and needs of certain individuals. Having trained individuals that can give inputs can be advantageous in a myriad of ways since potential buyers can make the necessary adjustments before shelling out huge sums of money.  

Kylie is a writer by day and a blogger at night. She loves to write about home improvement, tips, how-to’s etc.