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How to Melt Aluminum Sheets

Metalworking hobbyists often need to melt down scrap aluminum to reclaim it for use in projects. Scrap aluminum is readily available in the form of machinery parts, beverage containers and cookware. Aluminum is one of the easiest metals to handle in a molten state due to its low melting point of 1,220 degrees Fahrenheit and low density. A low melting point reduces the amount of energy required for the melting process so you can cast aluminum into ingots using steel or iron forms.

Things You'll Need

Welding gloves
Face shield
Welding shirt
Welding pants
Leather boots
Oxygen equipped melting torch
Metal cutting saw
Crucible
Crucible stand
Tongs
Mold

Instructions

- 1
  Put on all safety apparel and check for comfort.
- 2
  Inspect your melting torch. Pay close attention to the tip and hoses. Ensure that the tip is not clogged with dirt or insect nests and that the hose is free of cracks.
- 3
  Light your torch and adjust the flame according to the user manual. When you are sure it is functioning normally, extinguish the torch.
- 4
  Cut the aluminum into chunks that can easily be placed in the bottom of the crucible.
- 5
  Set your crucible on the crucible stand. The stand should be set on a level, nonflammable surface away from flammable or explosive substances.
- 6
  Place a few aluminum chunks inside the crucible.
- 7
  Light your torch and adjust the fuel and oxygen knobs according to manufacturer specifications.
- 8
  Direct the flame of the torch onto the aluminum inside the crucible. Only the flame should touch the aluminum.
- 9
  Heat the aluminum until it becomes a silvery liquid.
- 10
  Add more aluminum to the small amount already melted. Heat until the additional material is completely liquefied. Add more material as needed.
- 11
  Grasp the crucible with your tongs and pour the molten aluminum into your mold.

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