Can i combine acs and pmc in a project?

Hi
I began my experiments into metal clay with PMC3 but now I want to switch to ACS. I have the paste, syringe and clay in PMC3 and I am wondering what happens if the scraps from ACS are mixed into the scraps from PMC3? Does anyone know?
thanks!

[Metalman]

Okay out there - did anyone do the experiment yet???

I have not, if we get no replys I may have to find a source for PMC and buy some so I can do this test.
I suspect that when combining the two, you would have to carefully read the firing directions of each product to determine the 'lowest common denominator' of the firing requirements.
 
What that means is that when you combine products you will need to fire at the highest temperature for the longest time schedule that is listed in the directions for the products you are using.

[Sorcie]

Thanks for replying. I got a bit of ArtClay yesterday in the mail, so I just need to find some time to do this.  But there surely has to be some people out there who have done it already?

I've been careful so far to not mix the two.  i can't help but think it would be fine, but i can't guarantee it.  i'm not sure i would use the two for major parts of a piece, but i could see combining them in the slip.

[JudyD]

I fire the PMC+ paper clay with the ACS 650.  They are not mixed, but there has been no problem.  I think I probably have also inadvertently mixed some together in my reconstituted slip....again, no problems.  I do generally fire my clay between 1500 and 1600 deg F, for at least 30 minutes.  I have heard that the higher firing temp will ensure a greater density and strength in the finished product.  I do seem to have less problems with breakage.

JudyD

[Metalman]

I have heard, and it does seem to happen, that there is a little more shrinkage at the higher temps for longer times - but it will increase  the strength and durablity.