According to Hobbyist Geek:
Anode bags are used as a filter.
The anode bag prevents external metal pieces from entering the electroforming solution by acting as a blocking filter.
This keeps the electroforming solution clean and ensures optimal results.
So you can spend more time electroforming and less time filtering your bath.
Electroforming is a fascinating process that is becoming increasingly more popular among hobbyists. In this article, we’ll explain an essential part of electroforming for hobbyists, anode bags.
What are anode bags, and how do we use them? We will answer these, and many more questions in today’s article. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into the action.
What Are Anode Bags?
Let’s start by answering some essential questions on the topic of electroforming anode bags before we move into further details.
The first essential question we of course need to answer is, what are anode bags in the first place? Let’s take a closer look at electroforming anode bags.
Anode bags are small bags made from fabric.
They have an opening on one side so they can fit the anode inside and they act as a filter to prevent small metal pieces from getting to the anode, and therefore into the electroforming solution.
This ensures optimal electroforming results.
What Is The Importance Of An Anode Bag?
We now know what an anode bag is, but we still have to answer another essential question surrounding this topic.
What is the importance of an anode bag? What happens if we don’t use an anode bag? Let’s find out.
The anode bag is an essential part to ensure optimal electroforming results.
Without an anode bag, small metal particles can enter the solution via the anode, these metal pieces will then be plated onto the metal object.
This causes bumps and distortions in the shape and color of the electroforming piece, which is undesirable of course.
How Long Does An Anode Bag Last?
We now know a lot more about anode bags and their importance, but one question leads to another, as how long does an anode bag last exactly?
They of course can’t last indefinitely, but how long do they hold up? Let’s take a look.
How long your anode bag lasts depends on plenty of things, such as your solution, the size of your bag, and the number of uses.
In general, anode bags should last you a pretty long time, and definitely several electroforming projects. Simply wash them every once in a while until real signs of wear start showing.
Best Fabric Choice For Electroforming Anode Bag?
We have seen plenty of things about electroforming anode bags so far, but what you might not know is that anode bags come in many different fabrics and materials.
But what fabric choice is best for an electroforming anode bag? Let’s take a closer look.
The right fabric to choose for your anode bag depends on your personal project.
A good all-around option and copper baths are Polypropylene. I use a 5Micron PolyFelt electroforming anode filter bag.
A solid alternative for nickel baths is a cotton duck. You can use Polynap if you’re looking for a long-lasting heavy-weight anode bag.
How Do You Filter Electroforming Solutions?
As we have seen in today’s article, it is wise to use an anode bag to prevent metal pieces from entering the electroforming bath through the anode.
Despite using an anode bag, it is still good practice to filter your electroforming solution every once in a while, as this will drastically improve your electroforming results.
But how exactly do you filter an electroforming solution?
There are different ways of filtering an electroforming solution.
The easiest way is by simply running it through a coffee filter using a funnel. A charcoal filter will also work.
This will filter out the big pieces of debris and therefore improve electroforming results.
What Kind Of Anode Bags Are Used For Electroforming?
We have looked at many different types of anode bags throughout this article, but we as electroforming hobbyists of course want to know what applies to us.
So, let’s take a look at the kind of anode bags that are used for electroforming.
Anode bags are pretty much mandatory in electroforming to achieve desirable results.
The type of bag you use depends on the purpose and the solution, but generally, Polypropylene is the most common choice for electroforming.
You can vary the thickness of the material depending on the acidity of your bath.
How Do You Make An Anode Bag?
We have covered a lot about anode bags and their uses in this article, but did you know that it is possible to DIY your very own anode bags?
Let’s take a look at making our own anode bags for electroforming in no time.
Making your own anode bag is really easy. Simply buy the material you’re looking for, Polypropylene (5Micron PolyFelt ) for example, and cut it in the size you want.
Then use hot glue to connect both pieces of fabric, and be sure to leave a hole at the top for the anode. Thickness can be varied by placing multiple pieces of fabric on top of each other.
Final Thoughts On… What Are Electroforming Anode Bags Used For?
All in all, anode bags play an important role in the electroforming process. Without anode bags you might not get desirable results, it is therefore recommended to use an anode bag for electroforming.
