The Art of Lead Burning
 
A PRACTICAL TREATISE EXPLAINING THE APPARATUS AND PROCESSES.
52 ILLUSTRATIONS.

The mystery which has always surroundedthe work of the lead burner, like that of all otherhandicrafts outside of ordinary occupations, dissolvesunder the light of a full knowledge ofthe causes and effects that have a bearing uponit. While different works have treated on leadburning, it is the object of this special treatiseto explain fully in detail every part of the apparatusand fixtures in common use, as well as theirapplication, so that the careful reader may understandand acquire the art of lead burning byobserving scrupulously the rules laid down anddevoting sufficient time to practice to master it.This instruction, given by text and illustration,is only presented after the dangerous power ofhydrogen gas when misused is thoroughly impressedon the reader. It would be well for allwho hope to become lead burners to devote severalevenings, with an interval between, to athorough study of the chapters on hydrogen gasand its properties before taking any furthersteps. To those who have not had previous experiencewith chemicals and gases this preliminarystudy is indispensable for their own safety,for the successful operation of the apparatus andto insure satisfactory work. When fully familiarwith the properties of hydrogen gas and thenecessity of being careful when it is used littledifficulty will be experienced in acquiring a fullknowledge of the apparatus and fixtures. Theart of burning the lead can only be acquired bypractice, and either quickly or slowly, as the operatormay be quick and skillful in acquiring anyhandicraft. In addition to describing what hasbeen common practice for many years, the treatisecontains a description of a new machine andburner which has only recently become availableto lead burners. It also describes the method oflead burning with the use of illuminating gas anda soldering flux. A chapter is devoted to soft solderingand Britannia metal work, which islargely used in the equipment of bars and restaurants,the various joints being more easilymade with a blow pipe than by any other method.As the workman who hopes to profit by readingthis book can by a little negligence make a greatdeal of trouble for himself and others, cautionand great care are advised whenever he is atwork.