This is the newest form of PMC. A fast firing material, this clay fuses in as little as ten minutes in a kiln. Shrinkage is only 8-10%. Firing temperatures range from 1110 to 1290 F. You can shape it just like ceramic clay, using simple hand tools or even your fingers. Weight is net silver. When fired at 1,650° for two hours, PMC3 is the strongest fine silver metal clay available. It has a finer, smoother composition thats easy to work with and manipulate. You can also embed findings with confidence--firing at a low temperature means they wont be heat-damaged. PMC3 is suitable for torch-firing as well as kiln-firing.
Composition: Metal powder (90%), water and organic binder (10%)
Shrinkage: 12%
Color: Pickle white
Physical Properties: Firing temp.: 1,650°F (900°C) for two hours to achieve highest hardness and maximum durability; or 1,110°F (600°C) for 45 minutes; or 1,200°F (650°C) for 20 minutes; or 1,290°F (700°C) for 10 minutes.
Melting point: 1,762°F (960°C)
Density after firing: 9.3 specific gravity (rolled silver = 10.5 specific gravity)
Every variety of PMC is sold by the metal weight, not the weight that includes the water and binders that burn off during firing. You get every gram of precious metal you pay for from PMC. PMC® has a strong adverse reaction to contact with aluminum. Do not use aluminum tools or allow your PMC to come into contact with any aluminum object.
