This paper is an exploration of the possibility of using a DC direct arc as an alternative heat source for melting small quantities of metal for investment casting in the studio. While AC and DC arc melting is a mainstay of steel production, the small-scale use of an electric arc for melting seems to be limited to laboratory "button" melters for preparing metallurgical samples. The development of solid-state inverter power supplies for welding has reduced the cost and size of the equipment needed, which makes the idea of using them for small-scale melting attractive.

Author: James Binnion