Experiments in Hydraulic Removal of Dents from Shell Casings

[M8owner]

Experiment no. 1 - failure. Will rework equipment and try again. Of course, sealing is the biggest problem. I believe that the piston is too small and not moving enough volume - I will make a bigger one. This is a KwK 40 shell case filled with water. I use my shop press to push down the piston.

 

[Slick]

I've done a few with the "hammer & dolly" method. A little simpler process. Results on some, near perfect. Results on others, so-so. I'm no metalsmith, but generally the dings and dents were removed with little sign of pinging.

 

[smle2009]

Experiment no. 1 - failure. Will rework equipment and try again. Of course, sealing is the biggest problem. I believe that the piston is too small and not moving enough volume - I will make a bigger one. This is a KwK 40 shell case filled with water. I use my shop press to push down the piston.

Have you thought of using a denser liquid than water? such as a 'thick' gear oil,it could well help with the sealing problem.

 

[M8owner]

I am trying to stay away from oil as it takes almost four liters of fluid to fill a KwK40 case. Water is also much easier to clean up as there is much spillage. Greatest sealing issue is around the primer - I believe that I can solve that.