Casting Putty/Silicone Substitute

Alexander D. Mitchell IV · **Posted:** Sun Jun 24, 2012 6:58 pm

Since the previous topic in which this was brought up (as part of an off-topic diversion) was locked:

Remember this?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hojtemtiSd8

Quote:

Alexander D. Mitchell IV wrote:
"one of your guys posted a YouTube video of casting a babbitt bearing; what was that stuff in the caulk gun, some kind of silicone? And can you use that instead of babbitt putty?" (Answer: yes, high-temperature silicone subs for the "bear poop" putty.)

Speaking of learning from others, this is a "why didn't I think of that" moment. Can you share the make, model and supplier info on that high temp silicone?

I've now talked to the guy in the video himself. His response:

"We did the first one with hi-temp silicone. The problem with that stuff is that it takes forever to cool down, and until it does it's like napalm--it gets on you still hot, and doesn't come off. And second, I'm just too impatient. What I used in the rest of the babbitts was what's called 'fire caulk'--just go ask for it at any competent contractor supply or Home Depot. It's dirt cheap, too--one tube cost me, like, seven or eight bucks, I made the rest of the babbitts, and I still have half a tube left."

Questions? Comments? Counter-offers?

Casting Putty/Silicone Substitute

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