Residue in my lead pot

[bhubbard387]

I just got a Lee Production Pot and made my first jigs today.  After emptying the pot and letting it cool, there was some residue left behind.  It is flakey and is all different colors (yellow, purple, gold, brown).  I am using the soft lead ingots from Do-It.  Is this just how it always looks or did I do something wrong? 

[Kasilofchrisn]

Your lead is fine. Especially if you are using good lead like you said.
Also there is no need to empty the pot unless you are having issues and need to clean it out.
I just leave mine full. I believe that is the recommended procedure.

[bhubbard387]

Here is a picture of it.

[Justin9j]

Looks like a little dirt. No big deal.  Get you some flux and flux it couple times each time you pour. Dirt comes to the top.
I agree with k. Leave the lead in when your done.  Just unplug it. 

[bhubbard387]

Thanks guys, after a little more research it sounds like it may be a temperature thing also.  I was running my 10Lb Lee pot around 8-10, what does everyone else run it at? 

[ctom]

Leave it as full of lead as you can. What you're seeing in the emptied pot is normal. Starting the heating with the pot full is way easier on the heating element. I run my pot wide open, but I hand pour too and that will make a difference.

[Kasilofchrisn]

Thanks guys, after a little more research it sounds like it may be a temperature thing also.  I was running my 10Lb Lee pot around 8-10, what does everyone else run it at?

7 is where my pot normally runs. I do have a mold that likes it hot so I will turn it up to 8 or 9.
You don't want it to high because it gives off more harmful fumes if it gets over 1,000* so monitor your temp carefully if using 9 or 10.

[Lamar]

  I run mine at 7 and leave it full. I skim the junk off the top now and then but never do anything else.

[Justin9j]

I may just buy a rcbs lead pot soon. I hear nothing but good things.

[efishnc]

I was running my 10Lb Lee pot around 8-10, what does everyone else run it at?

I cast most things about 4 (which minimizes oxidation), but I have a few fussy molds where I go up to 7 or 8 on occasion.

[Cannibul]

I've owned a number of Lee pots over the years.  Some would cast just fine at 4 and others needed to be around 8.  There's no set number.  Each one is different.

I now use a RCBS and I'm never looking back.  Best furnace on the market.  Bit pricey unless you're doing a lot of pouring though.