In this short article, if I can call notes about my humble experience an article :) I'd like to show how I casted 614 gram (1 lb. 5 oz.) round brass ingot. For many people who start melting and casting metals, it can be hard to melt brass, bronze, copper after for example, lead and aluminum. The main problem is high brass melting point.

That’s why I had to upgrade my blowpipe before melting and casting brass. It was a real challenge to exceed 900 °С (1652 °F).

Step 1: Loading Charcoal, Some Coal and Start Melting

I used charcoal as usual but added several pieces of coal. It gave me nice temperature and very quickly. In fact, it took me approximately from 10 to 15 minutes to melt brass. I used still crucible, so there was a risk that it could start melting.

Step 2: Casting

Crucible was very hot, steel became white and it meant that the temperature reached approximately 1200 °С (2192 °F). Nevertheless, it withstanded and didn’t burn through. As a mold, I’ve decided to use an empty steel coffee can. It worked fine with aluminum but I can’t say the same about brass.

Step 3: After Casting Process

Because of much higher temperature brass welded with the can and became one whole. I had to use an angle grinder to remove pieces of the can. I've got a lot of additional work.

Step 4: My Results

Finally, I can say that I am very satisfied with the results. I had several attempts with my old air supply system and couldn’t melt brass. That’s why I was very glad to make this round ingot with my new blowpipe.