jwallweyfoundry,
I know you are experienced in foundry work, and you most likely have other skills. I believe a person often carries over good, as well poor practices onto the new skill they are learning.
I write this note as just a reminder to you. You most likely know most every thing I will say, but I feel it is important enough to say again, and again, and again.
From what I have observe about the people writing in on the web site, I don’t think they would allow bad advice from someone that may be dangerous, or lean toward bad practices to go un-checked. I feel this is a place where the watchdog of accurate information is on guard.
As you start into blacksmithing, please take the time to make sure what you learn from other people on the street is within the realm of good blacksmithing practices. Over the years I have had a lot of “good”/ bad information given to me by people who meant well, but they “didn’t know that they didn’t know”.
. You said “I think i might build a small gas forge soon since my foundry needs to be rebuilt and I will have some time this winter”.
It sounds like you may be inside welding etc., and then trying out your new gas forge.
Based on over 30 years of experience as an accident reconstructionist and a sometime consultant to OSHA, I would suggest a few things to keep in mind.
I have either seen or know about people who have been killed, injured, or screwed up in some way because they did not learn or apply concepts of safety along with the welding and blacksmithing work processes. YOU OWE IT TO THE PEOPLE WHO LOVE YOU to do it right!
For some examples: I know of more than one blacksmith who did not secure their anvil properly relative to the work they were doing (bending cooled off steel). When the anvil would start to tip over, they would try to catch it.
The operative word is “try”. Other words used is “leg and foot injury”
Others have forgot and left a hot cut in the hardie hole and have seriously cut them selves.
1. Safe practices need to coincide with technique. Always think of the possibilities.
2. I suggest you read about propane safety, and actually comply with the guidelines.
3. Become familiar with proper ventilation and fume extraction concepts.
4. Avoid cutting or welding GALVINIZE unless you use extreme safety measures.
I know this is lengthy, but I would rather be looked on as an old man ragging on you about being safe, and possibly placing a subconscious thought in your mind that may help you, as opposed to saying nothing.
Be Safe, Be Safe!
Ted Throckmorton
