RCBS Easy-Melt 240 V – lead melting furnace for ladle pouring

Product detailed description

RCBS Easy-Melt 240VAC-INTL is an electric melting furnace for lead and suitable lead alloys, designed for ladle pouring. It combines a 25 lb capacity pot, approximately 11.3 kg, digital temperature control and a pivoting cover. In a fishing tackle workshop, it suits anglers making jig heads, sinkers and pilkers who prefer to collect and dispense molten metal by hand.

The Easy-Melt has no bottom-pour spout or dispensing handle. You take molten metal from the top of the pot with a separate ladle and carry it to the prepared mould. There is no need to position the mould beneath a furnace nozzle, which can be useful when switching between blocks of different sizes or shapes. Select the ladle size and pouring lip to suit the sprue opening, cavities and total quantity of metal needed, including the sprue.

The digital controller displays two values: PV is the measured pot temperature and SV is the target temperature. This helps you return to a chosen setting and monitor the response when adding cold metal. After replenishing the pot, allow the added material to melt and the working conditions to settle. The display does not confirm that the mould has reached a suitable temperature or guarantee identical results with every alloy.

The RCBS instructions for model 81198 describe settings in °F. As a reference, 700 °F is approximately 371 °C; RCBS lists this as a suggested casting temperature for pure lead. Choose the working setting for the known alloy composition and the mould manufacturer's instructions. This is neither a universal setting for all fishing weights nor the furnace's maximum temperature rating.

The rated 25 lb / approximately 11.3 kg capacity refers to the metal held in the pot, not the weight of the furnace. A larger supply of molten metal can reduce how often you need to refill during a batch. The number of finished castings depends on their weight, the sprues and the operating reserve that must remain in the pot. Consider the total metal required to fill each mould, rather than the finished sinker weight alone.

The pivoting cover closes over the pot to help keep debris out. RCBS also describes using its upper surface to warm suitable metal mould blocks. The mould manufacturer must permit this method too; do not place wooden or plastic handles or other heat-sensitive parts on the hot cover. A cover does not replace extraction or remove the risks associated with working with lead.

For fishing tackle, explore jig head moulds, pilker and sea sinker moulds and other lead casting moulds. Check the intended alloy, safe handling method and filling instructions. The absence of a bottom-pour nozzle removes the need for clearance beneath that nozzle, but does not by itself establish compatibility with every mould or ladle.

A separate casting ladle is an essential tool for this model. For different quantities, you can compare the 180 g lead ladle and 500 g lead ladle. Those capacities describe the ladles, not a recommended pour size for every mould. The LEE Lead Ladle can also be used to skim debris from the surface.

Preparing the melt starts with clean metal and removing surface impurities as needed. If you use Clean Cast Lead Flux, follow its own dosage, handling and ventilation instructions. A lead ingot mould helps you prepare a stock of metal for later use. Unknown additives, damp scrap and contaminated material are unsuitable as a routine casting charge.

When choosing between the two RCBS furnaces, focus on how you want to dispense the metal. Choose the Easy-Melt for ladle pouring with the mould positioned separately. The RCBS Pro-Melt 2 240 V provides a handle-operated bottom-pour spout and a rest for a suitable mould block. Both have a rated capacity of 25 lb and digital temperature control. Moving to the Pro-Melt primarily changes the filling method, rather than providing a larger supply of molten lead.

Casting quality also depends on alloy cleanliness, mould preheating, cavity venting and a consistent pour. If a cavity does not fill correctly, do not automatically respond with a large temperature increase. First check the conditions recommended for that mould and use trial castings to refine the process. Digital control helps you repeat a setting, but it does not replace setting up the casting procedure properly.

Lead casting requires a dedicated workspace, effective ventilation and suitable protection. Use eye protection, heat-resistant gloves, protective clothing and closed footwear. Select respiratory protection for the actual exposure and follow its instructions; it does not replace extraction. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working. Wash your hands afterwards and clean the work surfaces. Keep children and pregnant people away from the casting area.

Water and moisture must never contact molten metal. Rapid evaporation can throw molten lead out of the pot. Do not leave the furnace unattended or move it while hot, and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. The built-in fan cools the equipment; it does not extract fumes from the workspace.

The 240VAC-INTL version, manufacturer part number 81198, is the international power variant. Check the rating label and the suitability of the power lead for your outlet before connecting it. The manual lists a pre-assembled body and base with an AC power cord; the casting ladle is purchased separately. Moulds, metal and protective equipment are not included in this offer. The full RCBS manual is available in the product's related files.

RCBS Easy-Melt frequently asked questions

Does the Easy-Melt have a bottom-pour spout?

No. Metal is taken from the top with a separate ladle. Choose the RCBS Pro-Melt 2 if you want handle-operated dispensing through a bottom nozzle.

Is a ladle included?

No. RCBS lists the casting ladle as a separately sold accessory. Choose its size for the mould and the total amount of metal needed to fill it.

How much lead does the pot hold?

Its rated capacity is 25 lb, approximately 11.3 kg. A minimum depth of 25.4 mm must remain in the pot during operation. Capacity is not the weight of the furnace itself.

What do PV and SV mean?

PV shows the measured pot temperature and SV the selected target. After adding cold metal, allow conditions to settle again. The instructions for 81198 use degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I warm a mould on the cover?

RCBS describes this method for suitable metal mould blocks. The mould manufacturer must permit it too. Keep heat-sensitive parts off the cover and never dip a mould into the melt.

Is this the version for the European market?

This is the 240 V AC international version, part number 81198. A different 120 V version also exists. Check the actual appliance label and use the appropriate power lead.

Can I unplug it as soon as casting is finished?

For normal shutdown, stop heating first and allow the fan to cool the equipment as described above and in the RCBS manual. At the specified unplugging temperature, the furnace is still too hot to treat as safe for handling.

Can it heat plastisol or melt aluminium?

We offer this furnace for lead and suitable lead alloys. We do not recommend it for plastisol, aluminium or zinc. Equipment for soft baits is available in our soft bait production section.

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