Iron Bracelet Mandrel?

[schmoinkel]

Any working diferance in working boro on iron vs. graphite? It seems it might cool it quicker, but will it stick to it? wax maybe?
I sopose preheating is in order too.

Anyone got thoughts on this?

Is it worth the extra 20 bones to get the graphite?

Thanks in advance, Scott

[chayes]

I'd go with the graphite. Seems it would allow a little more time in shaping, Plus the cold metal of the steel seems to put little fractures in the glass that need to be worked out or they snap so easy.

Where are the graphite ones available?

[schmoinkel]

moutian glass art has them for $65, witch is the best price ive seen on them

the iron deal is here for $47
http://www.tracysworkshop.com/p-3099-oval-bracelet-mandrel.aspx?affiliateid=10050

I was hoping the preheating would cover that, but not really worth the $18 saved to have to deal with it i geuss

[solfire]

i use a metal mandrel and it works fine never used the graphite one before I make boro bracelets and dont use wax on the mandrel might try it to see what happens though the glass wont check if your timing an your heat is on I wait until the moment right after the glow is gone and then flash the bracelet the metal will soak the heat out pretty quick but it dousnt seem to be a problem I usually scrap it as soon as it checks Ive taken more time than its worth fixing checks do it right the first time and you wont have to worry about it

[β]

So anyone ever use a graphite bracelet mandrel?

[Mr. Wonka]

Personally, I don’t like using iron / steel for anything... it will pick up condensation and start to rust and require periodic cleaning (especially in humid weather).

I use a stainless steel bracelet mandrel (http://www.dichroicimagery.com/product_info.php?cPath=7_132&products_id=1177) from ABR Imagery and it works great…. It also has a large sturdy base and stands at a comfortable angle.

I hope that helps… Tom

[somewhere]

I've used graphite and stainless steel. I would guess iron would be about the same as graphite but it will probably rust. I always heat the mandrel with a hand torch before the first go around just enough to keep the chill marks out of the glass. I have several jigs made from graphite for bending rod (dragonfly and butterfly wings hearts and table stands for ornament holders)all around I like graphite but I think they all will do the same job.

[somewhere]

Tom beat me to the post but brings up a good point thick steel will condensate like crazy when you go to preheat it. RUST

[β]

Thanx guys, that ABR one looks great!

[schmoinkel]

I ended up getting the metal one, theres a little rust but it cleans of pretty easy. No cracking or cheacking issuse either. Also there dosen't seem to be a need for preheating. Works great for me


Scott