How much firepower do I need in a torch?

[Luann Udell]

Hey, I've been using R&T's micro torch http://shop.rings-things.com/cart/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=2029&idproduct=17820 for awhile now.  I LOVE it!  I make my handmade headpins by "balling up" the end of sterling silver wire pieces, and use these for large pendants, cold joins, etc.

I have trouble using this "ball" technique on heavier gauges of sterling wire.  I THINK it's the 18 gauge or perhaps 16 gauge.  (I can tell my next tool will be a wire gauge measure!!)  Just can't heat the end hot enough to melt and ball up the end.  Do I need a bigger torch??

[Luann Udell]

Metalman, do YOU know?  You are our last hope, Skywalker....

[Polly]

Oh shoot!  He was here just minutes before I read this.  And my other best bet is in Tucson right now.  I'll see if I can get you an answer over the weekend.

[Russ Nobbs]

Yep, Dee says a bigger torch is the deal. You just can't produce enough heat. A regular propane torch like for sweating copper plumbing does not get hot enough, either, you need Oxy & Propane for the heat.  You could make the big jump to Oxy and propane (or oxy & Acetylene) and a "mini torch."

We just saw a more powerful small torch at show. It's very portable and probably fire marshall legal at most shows. I'll get the name & post it later tonight. It used bigger cans of gas but not like welding size tanks.

[Luann Udell]

Dang.  Okay, maybe it IS time!  Please keep me posted, Russ.   

[Russ Nobbs]

Found my literature from AGTA show on the "Miniflam" microtorch.  http://miniflam.com/

I some ways it's like a full bodied version of the creme brule torch you have when you connect it to the mini containers. When connectd to regular Oxy and Propane tanks it woks like the Smith  "Little Torch" Gentec "Small Torch" and other jewelers size torches. These all have more precise tips and flames than the standard Hoke style torch.

[Russ Nobbs]

Spent some time at Rio's Catalog in Motion today. Dee watched demos on Argentium fusing. She used a very small torch connected to a small propane tank. Will find details for you on that.

[Metalman]

Sorry its been a while - I like the acetylene air torch Smith makes called 'Silver Smith'
I am guessing $135 to 150 plus your tank.  The little 'M' tanks are a pain so I recommend a larger one.
I  bought one of those 'Little Torch' torches about a year ago [man I like that torch]
but Luann - you need to think about what you are doing/making and make a plan for this purchase.
The tanks/regulators /hoses/carts can add up - I try to not duplicate expenses.

[Luann Udell]

Reporting back on my progress.....

After much advice, emails & a few phone calls with Metalman (above and beyond the call of duty, mister!  ) I successfully created jump rings with 16 and 18 gauge fine silver today!

I ordered an assortment of solder blocks, ones for reflecting and holding heat as Metalman advised.  Starting with a large base, I built up a little "room" or "corner".  I used the regular sized hand held butane torch I bought from R&T. 

 Instead of soldering with sterling silver, I simply used fine silver, cut into short lengths, ends filed and sanded to create a flat surface, joined the ends and torched away.

It took a few tries to get the hang of things, but I successfully fused the silver!  Building a little "shelter" for heating the fine silver worked like a charm.  Plenty of heat from that little butane torch, no need to get anything bigger for awhile!

I wish we could upload photos, but til then, you can see these on my Flickr site at http://www.flickr.com/photos/14881284@N08/4527112994/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/14881284@N08/4526482545/

Thank you, R&T!!!!   

[Russ Nobbs]

Good to hear about your success, Luann.

Thanks for your kind words here and on your flickr page.

Fusing and soldering will get even easier with more practice.
Fusing can be more forgiving than soldering, but hammering after you've made the connection can cover up all sorts of what might otherwise be imperfections.

I like your green and beige river rocks. You know we just started to carry some drilled great lakes pebbles about the size of your rocks. Your hand made river rocks are lighter and maybe easier to wear? Maybe we should move to polymer clay rocks instead?

I also enjoyed your latest last word page in the latest Crafts Report.

[Luann Udell]

Wow, high praise indeed!  Thank you, Russ.   
Now, where are those Great Lakes stones?  I'm sure I've gotta have some!