Centrifugal casting (silversmithing)
In silversmithing, centrifugal casting is a casting technique where a small mould is poured, then spun on the end of an arm. The centrifugal force thus generated encourages a successful pour.
Processes
Centrifugal casting, or centrifuging, is used as a means of casting small, detailed parts or jewelry. An articulated arm is free to spin around a vertical axle, which is driven by an electric motor or a spring. The entire mechanism is enclosed in a tub or drum to contain hot metal should the mold break or an excess of metal be used. Single use molds are prepared using the lost wax method. A small amount of metal in a crucible next to the mold is heated with a torch. When the metal is molten the arm is released, forcing the metal into the mold. The high forces imposed on the metal overcome the viscosity, resulting in a finely detailed workpiece. A similar advantage may be obtained by vacuum casting or pressure casting.For casting of small parts using hot metal, a disk shaped mold is contained within a rotating drum, and molten metal is poured into the center.