but processing a large quantity is a new experience. Some 300 lbs of lead will be needed for the Belhaven's ballast, approximated to be about half a cubic foot.
For the test, lead plates from a dismembered car battery were to be melted in a discarded cast aluminum pot and the wood fire turbocharged with a hair dryer. Test was aborted due to equipment malfunction.
Lessons learned:
1. Cast aluminum cannot take the heat, its bottom cracked and made the molten lead leak out.
2. A lot of heat is wasted in an open fire, extending the meltdown time.
3. Ingot molds are needed.
