rigidizer for forge lining

[MarkJeffrey]

How necessary is the rigidizer before applying satanite to the wool? My can of instuff froze through the winter and it is ruined

 

[KnuckleDownKnives]

How necessary is the rigidizer before applying satanite to the wool? My can of instuff froze through the winter and it is ruined

I'm in the process of building my first forge, and Stacey has given me a lot of input, and never mentioned using rigidizer to me. Just satanite and ITC-100. Which I may skip the ITS-100.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

It is OK to use, but if you are installing the heavier grade wool, it really isn't necessary. Just build up the satanite in two or three layers. I just looked, and don't even see it on the HTT&R site. Rigidizer's main use is on uncoated wool linings like pottery kilns. It makes the fibers less friable.

What you assumed was ruined by freezing may be restorable by heating in a double boiler ans stirring well. You may need to add a little water, or even simer it a bit to get it right. Rigidizer is available at masonry and refractory suppliers ( boiler and furnace supply), as well as pottery supply shops.

I think Rigidizer is close to waterglass (sodium silicate). You can probably use that in its place. It costs about $24 a gallon with free shipping on eBay.

DIY rigidizer is often just hot sugar syrup. You want it medium thick. It will smell and smoke a bit when firing the forge, but that will go away.