Heat resistant blocks

[ps_bond]

...on the cheap.

Grooming blocks - they're normally used for removing loose hair from (horse) numnahs and the like; I decided they look a lot like pumice.

The one I bought is. Sat pointing a MAPP gas torch at it for a few minutes; the spot I torched reflected the heat extremely well. There's some heat transmission across to the other side, so I wouldn't use this directly on a vulnerable surface; however, they are something I'd have no problem digging into to provide support for soldering or the likes.

Or you could break it into lumps for an annealing pan, I guess.

[ps_bond]

And while I remember, you can also use pumice dipped in water as a cleaning abrasive. Work it to a slurry in the same way as you would with a Water of Ayr stone (or even a borax cone when making up flux), it'll remove oxides quite effectively.

[Di Sandland]

Mr Bond, you are a mine of wonderful information that can only have been picked up from years of experience and confidence in your work. I have filed away all these little bits of information for future use - keep em coming!

[EmmaRose]

Oh thanks! great tips
Em

[ben b]

.......................

[julie]

good advice

[EmmaRose]

ooooo scary