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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Electroforming...A Mini Introduction

Today is about plugging someone else's work. Shameless, unadulterated plugging...of a friend no less! ;-)

But... I'll be really brief (seems I've said that before!) But it's a really good product and I wanted to share my findings...

So in keeping with my resolution (blogging regularly), and because I was most anxious to share this information, I'm posting away....

One of the really fun things I do is electroforming some of my work...

To be clear... Electroforming is a bit different than electroplating. I could explain the process  the long way, with big words and scientific jargon and project I'm really bright,  but that's not me... I like simple, easy, and understandable-- with out having to pull the dictionary or reference material out...I want a taste of information...a clue....a tease! So here's my explanation in a nutshell--- in essence,electroforming is heavy duty plating.  Even more simple?....transferring copper molecules to another form using an electroforming solution, copper anodes, electro-cunductive paint, and a rectifier ( a machine using electric current).  Some of my work can take as long as 24 hours to completely get my desired results such as the heart to the left. What's really cool is that you can basically do anything that's non-porous, actually you can do porous objects as well, they just have to be treated and prepped properly..... ;-).

But here's the reason for my post, my shameless plug!

Recently I discovered 2 of my friends, Charlie and Margaret... are making rectifiers.  And the buzz in the S.E. Michigan area from other lampworkers ( that's me too!) is that they've produced a really great product!

Precision Current Supply Rectifier
                                                   
Firedance Beads and Jewelry
 
Here are some basic features:
  1. Single adjustment to set current value
  2. No voltage adjustment required
  3. Minimal set up effort
  4. Bright red LED read out
  5. Current value remains constant within ± .01 amperes
  6. Short circuit protection is not required
  7. Designed  and made in the USA
  8. Engineered cooling system to extend life of the power supply
  9. Includes 2 test leads
 The vessel to abovet was done on the Precision Current Supply. Neat Huh????

The Island Girl  below was also done on the Precision Current Supply.
Firedance Beads and Jewelry

For more detailed information and product specification you can contact either Margaret, or Charlie  @ MSutherland100@yahoo.com or phone them at 1-248-437-5203.

See you next week!

9 comments:

  1. Wow, that is really cool! How do you get the copper to land where you want it?

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  2. Thank You Kathleen for introduce us to this lovely artist !!! The vase & Island girl are SO special :)

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  3. Wow, interesting information on your work. Are you thinking or did you get one of those Precision Current Supply Rectifier ?

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  4. Ah! Sounds complicated, but so interesting!

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    Replies
    1. Mt.Baldy ...the copper is placed on the glass with the electroductive paint. I generally apply with a paint brush. Once the anodes are introduced into the solution (there's a positive and negative lead) the copper is transferred from the anode to the glass piece.

      Ruth....I've not gotten one yet. Mne is still holding up. It will be the one I purchase if my rectifier fails. I have two friends who have purchased this one after their firts one quit working. They both love it.

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  5. Thanks for the mini into. Now i'm intrigued!! ready for the wikipedia version when you are :)

    ReplyDelete

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