Magpie - 7-11-2005 at 15:23
In getting materials needed for drying NH3 gas I judged that I couldn't use my CaO powder "as is" as it is too fine. So I decided to use KOH flakes
(per garage chemist) or make some CaO pellets. Using a parallel path approach I finally found a reasonable source for KOH ($3/lb). Right after I
ordered it my pellet making effort was successful. Oh well, I've been wanting some KOH for a long time anyway.
Here's a picture of my pellet press and 2 pellets. In the big one I added about 10% borax as a binder. This pellet is quite hard. The smaller one
is made from pure CaO. It is also sufficiently hard. (I accidently dropped both on the floor with no damage.) I used my vice and held the pellets
under pressure for 1 minute.
The smaller stud (1/4" bolt)in the wood base, the 1/4" bolt plunger, and the 1/8" brass nipple (2" long) form the pellet press. These sizes give a
reasonably close sliding fit.
[Edited on 7-11-2005 by Magpie]
[Edited on 30-1-2007 by chemoleo]
Tacho - 8-11-2005 at 06:47
Great work Magpie!
I couldn't help but laugh at the sheer simplicity of it. I would probably waste money and time on a complicated design that, in the end,
wouldn't work as well as yours...
Magpie - 8-11-2005 at 07:56
Thanks Tacho but I copied someone elses design. The only credit I can take is in knowing that I shouldn't have to spend thousands or even
hundreds of dollars for a press.