Materials - Lead

General

This soft metal is generally used as an additive to other materials. Its heavy weight makes it useful for ballast or adding weight to a weapon/body etc.

Properties

Density 11.4g/cc
   
   

Forming

Cutting
Can be cut with hacksaw or jigsaw. A soft metal which heats readily. Care should be taken to keep heat down by using a suitable heatsink (eg oil) during cutting.

Bending
Can easily be formed by heating.
Needs only minimal heat to become plyable - in fact for small pieces, warming in your hands is normally sufficient. (Note information in the handling section before doing this).

Casting
Lead can easily be cast using most casting techniques. For many items, sand casting or similar is an excellent way to form this material.

Welding
Information not available.

Grinding/Filing
Can be filed but because it is soft, the file will quickly clog up Note information in handling section also
.

Joining
Lead is a consituant of solder and can be joined this way, but its soft nature tends to make any joins difficult. Better to cast material in final form.

Handling and Storage

Lead is a highly toxic material and great care must be taken when handling. During any cutting or filing a face mask should be worn. After handling lead, ensure that hands and face are thoroughly washed and that clothes are free of any lead dust. Do not inhale or swallow. If in any doubt, seek medical advice immediately.

Links
rswww.com Supplier, look under Mechanics/Engineering Materials
   


If you have further information on this area, please email it to us at robotwars101@lineone.net