REITEL RETOCAST T User manual

Operating Instructions
LABORATORY EQUIPEMENT IN
STAINLESS STEEL
RETOCAST T
REITEL Feinwerktechnik GmbH
Senfdamm 20 | 49152 Bad Essen
Phone: [phone] | Fax: [phone]
www.reitel.com | [email protected]

II
Dear Customer!
The RETOCAST T flame casting centrifuge is a compact tabletop unit with a double wall
stainless steel housing and a manual timer for precision casting. With three tightening
speeds, metals and investment materials of all kinds are used and cast. The centrifugal arm
has a counterweight to ensure smooth, quiet running and alloys are cast even into the
thinnest cavities within the casting ring, excluding metal waste.
Any other use or usage beyond this scope is considered unintended use. The manufacturer
shall not be responsible for any damages that may result thereby.
Prior to installation of the device operating instructions and especially the safety instructions
must be read and followed by all personnel who use this device.
After having unpacked the device, please check carefully whether transportation damages of
any kind have occurred. If that is the case, the carrier or manufacturer must be notified within
3 days. The company will not be responsible for any damages found after that.
These operating instructions must be read and followed by all personnel who use this device.
To ensure quick access we recommend to keep it at a safe place near the device. In case of
loss it can be ordered from the manufacturer.

III
INDEX
TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION......................................................................................... 4
BASIC EQUIPMENT....................................................................................................... 4
SPECIAL ACCESSORIES................................................................................................ 4
DEVICE COMPONENTS.................................................................................................. 5
TECHNICAL DATA........................................................................................................10
SAFETY NOTES..........................................................................................................11
GENERAL SAFETY NOTES ...........................................................................................11
SPECIFIC SAFETY NOTES.............................................................................................12
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR GAS HANDLING..................................................................13
SAFETY NOTES FOR GAS PRESSURE REGULATORS........................................................14
INSTALLATION...........................................................................................................15
GAS SUPPLY INSTALLATION PROPANE/OXYGEN.............................................................15
INSTALLATION OF GAS SUPPLY NATURAL GAS/OXYGEN ..................................................16
OPERATION................................................................................................................16
TORCH HANDLING AND GAS ADJUSTMENT.....................................................................16
FLAME ADJUSTMENT...................................................................................................17
HOW TO IGNITE A TORCH,USING A GAS ECONOMIZER....................................................17
HOW TO STORE THE TORCH.........................................................................................17
PLACING THE TORCH ON THE HOLDER OF THE GAS ECONOMIZER ...................................17
CASTING PROCEDURE.................................................................................................17
TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................19
MAINTENANCE...........................................................................................................20
WARRANTY.................................................................................................................21
DISPOSAL REGULATIONS ........................................................................................24
SPARE PARTS LIST ...................................................................................................25
EC-CONFORMITY DECLARATION.............................................................................26

4
Technical Description
Basic Equipment
•RETOCAST T flame casting centrifuge with manual timer
•1 melting crucible (normal)
•1 manual lid opener
Special Accessories
•Order-No.: 20509000 Melting crucibles normal (pack of 5 pieces)
•Order-No.: 20510000 Melting crucibles extra deep (pack of 5 pieces)
•Order-No.: 20501000 Melting kit (propane/oxygen)
•Order-No.: 20518000 Melting kit (natural gas/oxygen)
•Order-No.: 20502000 Gas economizer, propane
•Order-No.: 20512000 Gas economizer, natural gas
•Order-No.: 20506000 Melting torch for noble metal and non-precious metal
•Order-No.: 20506100 Melting torch for noble metal
•Order-No.: 20514000 Torch handle propane
•Order-No.: 20514100 Torch handle natural gas
•Order-No.: 20507000 Universal insert (propane/oxygen), for melting and soldering
noble metal and non-precious metal
•Order-No.: 20507100 Universal insert (natural gas/oxygen), for melting and soldering
noble metal
•Order-No.:20503000 Solder insert 0,5 mm nozzle
•Order-No.: 20504000 Solder insert, 1,0 mm nozzle
•Order-No.; 20505000 Mikroflam propane, incl. 3 precision needles, for soldering
•Order-No.: 20505100 Mikroflam natural gas, incl. 3 precision needles, for soldering
•Order-No.: 20516000 Solder insert, propane, with 3 changeable nozzles
•Order-No.:20516100 Solder insert natural gas, with 3 changeable nozzles

5
Device components
1 Lid support
2 Indicator lamp „ready for centrifugation"
3 Locking bolt
4 Locking block
5 Power switch with restarting protection
6 Starting speed selector switch
7 Timer
8 Emergency stop switch
9 Overload fuse for lid opener
10 Device’s fuse 10A –delayed action (2 pieces)
11 Solder insert
12 Locating fork
13 Torch valve: oxygen
14 Torch valve: fuel gas
15 Torch handle
16 Pilot orifice
17 Securing spring for locating fork
18 Ignition flame controller
19 Cylinder pressure gauge
20 Pressure adjusting screw
21 Operating pressure readings
22 Connecting nut for oxyge cylinder
23 Connecting nut for gas cylinder
24 Shut-off valve pressure regulator
25 Flashback and burst pipe preventer with hose coupling
26 Crucible holder
27 Mould holder
28 Mould isolation
29 Counterweight
30 Counterweight adjustment
31 Stop curve for counterweight
32 Height adjustment lever for mould holder

6
Plan view
Control panel
Rear side
2
1
8
5
7
6
9
10
3 + 4
(hidden view)

7
Gas economizer
Gas pressure regulator
Interior of the device
16
17
18
25
24
29
30
31
32
21
22
12
15
20
26
27
19
11
13
28
14
23

8
Torch handle natural gas
Torch handle propane
Flame adjustment
Gas bottle installation
hard flame
(excess oxygen)
neutral flame
(normal)
soft flame
(propane/excess natural gas)
bottle valve
gauge
operating pressure propane
non-return valve for propane
left-hand thread
red hose
pressure adjusting screw

9
Oxygen bottle installation
The flame casting centrifuge is suitable for the following moulds:
No.
Diameter
[mm]
Steel cylinder
Length
[mm]
Weight + / -10%
[g]
1
3
6
9
12
30
48
65
80
95
yes
yes
yes
yes
no
55
55
55
55
75
75
200
400
600
950
Using other mould systems adjust the counterweight according to your own experience and
after test trials, possibly referring to the weight of the standard rings.
gauge bottle pressure
gauge working pressure oxygen
blocking valve
non-return valve
blue hose
pressure reducer
pressure adjusting screw

10
Technical Data
Line voltage
230 V/50-60 Hz
Current consumption
500 W
Height/width/depth
350(800)/710/550 mm
Weight
44 kg
Speed
500 rpm
Casting ring sizes
1-9 und model casting
Quantity of metal:
noble metal 130 g
non-precious metal 60 g
Material
noble metal/non-precious metal/model
casting
Casting time
programmable
Starting speed
3
Sound level
≤70 dB(A)
Housing
Stainless steel and white stove-enamelled
steel
Order-No.:
10502000
Made in Germany (Subject to modifications)

11
Safety Notes
General Safety Notes
•All equipment undergoes final inspection and testing before leaving our factory. However,
if equipment is damaged during shipping or through any other circumstances, it must not
be used in service. Please check the device regularly for damages. Damaged parts
should be replaced immediately.
•All power/air/water/gas sources should be rated for the demands of the device as listed in
the technical data sheets. Maximum ratings must not be exceeded. All VDE (Verein
Deutscher Elektro-Ingenieure) standards should be followed. Equipment should be
grounded according to standards.
•Adherence to valid regulations regarding necessary checks (e.g. according to Accident
Prevention & Insurance or electrical equipment) is exclusively taken over by the
buyer/user of this product.
•This device has been designated to be used only for its intended purpose. All other
applications must be prohibited for safety reasons as otherwise the manufacturer’s
warranty expires.
•The device should be set-up in a clean, well-ventilated room, if necessary under a hood.
•Supporting surfaces should be straight, flat and adequately stable.
•Don’t place anything on top of the machine.
•To avoid injury, appropriate protection should be worn (e.g. gloves, safety glasses, safety
shoes, hearing protection etc.)
•If the machine is defective or working improperly it must be taken out of service. In case
of further use of the machine the owner will be held responsible for any consequential
damage.
•To prevent accidents from water, fire or explosion, all power/air/water/gas sources should
be turned off after working hours and during breaks, and secured against unauthorized
access.
•When carrying out maintenance works or repairs or when opening the device always turn
off the main power switch and unplug the whole unit.
•Repairs should be carried out only by the manufacturer or by qualified and certified
personnel appointed according to chapter 7 –warranty.
•In case of leaking water out of housing or tank shut down device and call service.
•Check all hose connections for leak tightness, if necessary tighten hose clamps again.

12
Specific safety notes
•The RETOCAST T is a tabletop unit. Store the flame casting centrifuge on a flat and
stable surface where it cannot fall down in case of improper counterweight adjustment
(unbalance).
•Casting only with closed lid.
•Always use pliers when inserting or taking out the mould or the melting crucible –risk of
burns.
•Never open the lid before the centrifugal arm has totally stopped. Do not reach into the
running machine. Danger of injury.

13
Safety instructions for gas handling
•Don’t store any explosives, highly flammable or burnable materials in the work area.
•Be careful when handling gas and oxygen cylinders. Protect gas and oxygen cylinders
from external heat sources, falling down or damage.
•Gas installation only may be carried out by an authorised gas fitter.
•Only use the torch flame for heating up crucible and melting material within the unit –
never direct the flame at other parts or living beings.
•Brennerablage und -handling gegen Brand- oder Verbrennungsgefahr sichern.
•Always wear goggles and gloves when working with the burner.
•Gas connection only in accordance with operating instructions. Caution: risk of explosion.
Ensure perfect tightness, subject to regular inspection.
•After finishing work, close the main gas supply valves.
Note:
Propane gas is heavier than air and has the potential to ignite explosively in case of
uncontrolled accumulation.

14
Safety notes for gas pressure regulators
•Parts being in contact with oxygen must be kept free of oil and grease.
•The pressure relief valve adjustment must not be modified.
•Make sure that sealing surfaces, joint gaskets and gauges are always in perfect
condition.
•In the event of disturbances the pressure regulator must be taken out of operation
immediately and the gas cylinder valve has to be closed.
•Pressure regulators may only be used for approved type of gas.
•Pressure regulators according to respective type of gas are admissible for gas cylinders
with a filling pressure of max. 200 bar.
•Pressure regulators may not be modified without permission of the manufacturer.
•Pressure regulators may not be operated with adapters between gas cylinder valve and
pressure regulator inlet.
•Improper use of pressure regulators may result in damage, endangering users or other
persons.
•Pressure regulators shall be used in compliance with the accident prevention regulations
UVV for welding, cutting and allied processes (VGB15).
•Pressure regulators are subject to regular visual inspection. According to the Industrial
Safety Regulations, the commercial user is responsible to adhere to.

15
Installation
The electrical equipment is being delivered fully installed. The sealed plug can be connected
directly to the mains supply 230 V/16 A. For installation please refer to safety notes in
chapter 2.
Gas supply installation propane/oxygen
1. Blow out the connections of the propane gas cylinder with oil-free compressed air prior to
installation of the pressure regulator.
2. Briefly open oxygen cylinder valve prior to connection to the pressure regulator, in order
to blow out impurities
3. Please check the gas cylinder thread for damage.
4. Connect the pressure regulator with connecting nuts (22) + (23) to the closed gas
cylinder valve and tighten them with a flat wrench.
(oxygen: right-hand thread; propane gas: left-hand thread)
5. Check if the shut-off valve (24) is closed.
6. Remove T-screw (20), to completely relieve pressure.
7. Ensure gas-tight connection of the supply hose to the hose coupling (25).
8. Slowly open the gas cylinder valve. Oxygen gas pressure is indicated on the pressure
gauge (19).
9. Use the T-screw (20) to adjust working pressure. The adjusted working pressure is
indicated on the bottle’s pressure gauge (21).
10. Slowly open the shut-off valve (24) of the pressure regulator.
11. In case of free flow, a pressure drop might occur. Use the T-screw (20) to readjust
pressure.
Note:
Properly arrange gas cylinder installation. Ensure secure and tight screwings. Adhere to
safety notes in chapter 2.

16
Gas pressure settings according to the following chart:
Oxygen
2,5–3,0 bar
Propane gas
1,0–1,5 bar
Natural gas
depending on gas line 300 mbar–500 mbar
12. For bottle replacement unscrew the pressure regulator from the cylinder valve. The
pressure regulator must be depressurized to prevent damage!
Installation of gas supply natural gas/oxygen
1. Installation of the oxygen cylinder according to chapter 3.1
2. Using natural gas, attach the fuel gas hose at the gas economizer directly to a fuel gas
fitting (left-hand thread).
In Germany there’s no need for the customer to install a pressure regulator and a flashback
preventer since this is already installed by the gasworks.
Operation
Torch handling and gas adjustment
1. Open the valves at the propane and oxygen cylinders or open natural gas supply.
Pressure gauge (19) indicates the pressure.
2. Hold the torch handle (15) in your hand. If a gas economizer is available, take the torch
off the locating holder (12) of the gas economiser. The locating holder (13) is unlocked by
unlatching the securing spring (17).
3. Gas pressure settings with the torch handle valves (13) + (14) open, according to the
chart in chapter 3.1.
4. After finishing work switch off the gas supply. Close cylinder valve and shut off-valve (24).
Ensure that the residual gas is completely discharged.
5. Completely unscrew pressure adjusting screw (20) to relieve pressure.

17
Flame adjustment
1. Ignite the flame at the tip of the solder insert (11) with a gas lighter.
2. Adjust the flame with the valves on the torch’s handle (13) + (14), until the flame is
hissing and blue (see chapter 1.3 flame adjustment).
How to ignite a torch, using a gas economizer
1. Open ignition flame controller (18) and use a gas lighter to ignite the flame at the pilot
orifrice (16).
2. Ignite the torch inclined from bottom, at the pilot flame.
How to store the torch
1. Prior to laying the torch onto the holder, close the fuel gas valve (14) and the oxygen
valve (13) at the handle.
2. Close the valves at the propane and oxygen cylinder or if applicable close the gas line.
Placing the torch on the holder of the gas economizer
1. Hang the torch up on the locating holder (12). Press it down (12) until it’s secured by the
clamp (17).
2. Don’t change the torch’s valve settings. The gas economiser maintains all settings until
getting started.
3. Prior to putting the torch onto the holder of the gas economiser, close the fuel gas valve
(23) with the connecting nut and the oxygen valve (13) at the handle.
4. Close the valves at the propane and oxygen cylinder or if applicable close the gas line.
Casting procedure
1. Open the valves of gas and oxygen cylinders (see chapter 1.3 device components).
2. Turn power switch (5) to position„I“.
3. After 15 seconds the lid opens.
4. Adjust the counterweight (29) for mould sizes (1-12 are adapted to the steel casting ring
system). Adjust the casting ring sizes 1-12 and counterweight adjustment (31) the way
that the rest hole (30) snaps into the nose of the stop end curve (31).
5. Adjust the casting mould holder (27) according to mould sizes1-12. Use the lever for
height adjustment (32) until the neck of the melting crucible is exactly aligned with the
mould’s funnel.
6. Select starting speed with switch (6):
−„0“ = very gentle start (for gypsum based investment material);
−„I“ = gentle start (for noble metal);

18
−„II“ = quick start (for non-precious metal).
7. Set centrifugal time with timer (7), at least 20 sec.
8. Insert pre-heated melting crucible. (New melting crucible should be glazed with melting
power before being used.)
9. Fill in weighed metal quantity (maybe use an alloy tray and melting powder).
10. Take the torch up (see chapter 4.1). Ignite the flame and adjust it.
11. Heat the metal up to red heat. Dabei muss der Flammenabstand min. 70 mm sein.
12. Use pliers to take the mould out of the furnace and put it into the mould holder (27). Move
the crucible forward.
13. Heat metal up to the casting temperature. (There’s some experience necessary: Please
make some trial castings at different temperatures and with re-heating times.)
14. Start casting procedure: Set the timer (7) to required time and closed the lid. The
indicator lamp (2) lights up, casting is started.
15. Switch off the torch and if applicable, the gas economiser (see chapter 4.4 and 4.5).
16. After the set time has elapsed (the lid will unlock itself after 15 sec.), take out the mould
with the casting objet. If centrifugation is intended to be terminated prematurely, set the
timer (7) to 0.
17. When all casting processes are completed, turn power switch (5) off to „0“ and close gas
and oxygen cylinders.

19
Troubleshooting
Unit doesn’t start.
a. Check the building’s main fuse
b. Check the device’s fuse.
Burner bangs when gas supply is
interrupted.
Check pressure at pressure regulator.
Locating fork (13) of gas economizer is not
fully pressed down →try to lower the lock.
Too little oxygen pressure, flame comes
back →
Burner’s tip is molten.
Too little oxygen presure.
Due to bad flame adjustement, the burner
comes too close to the metal →Maintain
minimum distance 60-80 mm.
Casting model is not fully filled flown out.
The metal is not liquid enough →no
homogeneous melting. Check investment:
e.g. sprueing channels, feeder.
Metal doesn’t become liquid.
Wrong torch →check gas pressure and
flame (see chapter 1.3).
Porous casting model structure
Metal might be overheated. Melting time
was too long →reduce time.
Metal loss.
Crucible neck and mould funnel ar not
aligned →try extra deep melting crucibles
(from about 40 g alloy quantity).
Return spring at centrifugal arm might be
defective →replace it. Centrifugal arm is
not moving smoothly →Contact customer
service.
Unbalanced casting centrifuge.
Adjust the counterweight so that it runs
smoothly (see chapter 4.6).
Centrifugal process doesn’t start.
Check lid switch, timer (7), device fuses
(11), and power supply.
Lid doesn’t open.
Press overload protection (10) on the rear
side of the device. Jammed locking bolt (3)
or locking block (4) incorrectly adjusted →
readjust. Open lid mechanically with the
manual opener by pressing the locking bolt
back (3).

20
Maintenance
•Check the device regularly for damage. Pay attention to visible damage to the housing or
power cord or compresses air hoses.
•Regularly clean or hoover regularly the centrifuging chamber.
•Change isolation on rear of mould (29) when worn.
•Clean the housing regularly with a damp cloth or with REITEL stainless steel care spray.
Note:
Clean and protect your device regularly with the REITEL stainless steel care spray
(Order-no.: 90405000) to remove lime, plaster and dust as well as other contaminants
from the surface of equipment and to prevent corrosion. The spray creates a lasting,
water repellent protective film which helps keep the equipment clean.