Perlite, Silica Sand, and Fireclay

[irnsrgn]

to much technical data, all flux does is coat the part being heated to prevent oxidation and scale buildup. most people put way to much on anyway, all you need is just enough to make the surface look wet at a red or orange heat.

[rusty_iron]

Gday all,
can I add my 2 cents worth???

Many years ago I had a friend who trained as a boilermaker/blacksmith when they made boilers. He trained in England, building steam trains among other things.

He told me that I could use sand, clean white sand was best, but any would do. The british smiths mostly used sand he said.

Anyway to back this up, I just looked in "The General Blacksmith" by Malcolm Paine, 2007. He is a smith who trained in England and now calls Oz home.

Page 80
"A silica sand is the best to use for a flux. The colour is of no importance. If, when rubbed between the fingers, it feels as if the grains are sharp, it should be alright to use. Avoid beach sand if possible. Borax is used in the same ways as sand, and they can be mixed together to make a flux."

He says to dip into the sand or borax.

hope this helps. I've not tried the sand, but plan to.
Regards
Rusty_iron,
Brisbane, Oz.