Melting Gold with an Acetylene Torch: Safety, Crucibles & Alternatives

Question
I have a acetylene torch and I would like to melt pure gold into bars of 6-8 oz. the torch will be a good tool to do it?. what kind of crucible do you recommend?

Answer
Hello,

To melt that much safely you might want to consider a propane fired muffle furnace.  I use AP Green clay crucibles.  You will need some borax flux as well and  a mold to pour into.  Goggle's and fire proof apron and gloves should be used for your safety.  If you still want to use the torch you will need the same items including tongs and a open roasting dish made of the same fire clay.  I am not sure you will be able to do the 6-8 oz at a time that way.  I would start with  smaller lots then add to see how much you can do.  You will want to get some boric acid as a flux as well, when using a torch.  Jewelers melt gold all the time this way.  I would recommend you contacting one in your area that you can get tips from.

Regards,

Steven D.Covey