MACHINING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Any standard tooling works, however, we recommend CARBIDE tipped tooling for production runs.
The Grade “A” Lava expands 2% when fired to 2000°F, therefore, you must machine your parts 2% undersize in every dimension.
Use shop vacuum at source of machine to collect dust.
Medium to high speed is used for machining. Where deep holes are required, use an open spiral drill and only drill down 1/4″ at a time – withdraw drill and clear flutes of dust – then, resume drilling
To avoid cracks, we do not recommend firing parts with wall thickness over approximately 3/8″. Wherever possible, keep the walls as thin as practical. Drill extra holes whenever possible to help in the expansions and contractions during the firing process. After lava is fired, it is converted into a very hard material. For close dimensional control, parts may be ground after firing. Fired lava is usually ground wet.
FIRING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Place part in cool furnace (kiln) shielded from any direct flame.
Take temperature up SLOWLY at approximately 250°F per hour until the maximum temperature of 2000°F, has been reached.
At 2000°F, allow furnace to “soak” for 45 minutes. Then, turn off source of heat and allow furnace to cool to room temperature before opening. DO NOT FORCE TO COOL.
WE DO CUSTOM FIRING AT NOMINAL CHARGES.
Important:
All technical data printed herein is believed to be accurate and correct, however, we make no specific warrant to that effect.
Since the materials offered herein are entirely nature made, we can only make a concerted effort to supply the raw materials as flaw-free as possible. Color and hardness does vary slightly from block to block, however, its use remains quite constant.
