Bell-founding
The founding of bells is practically the same as for any other similar object, as pans, kettles, domes, etc. Large ones are usually made in loam by first striking a core, by means of a centre-spindle and sweep-board, the latter corresponding to the inner dimensions and form of the bell to be cast. When this has firmly set, another sweep-board answering to the outer contour of the bell is secured to the spindle, and a thickness of sand formed on the core; after which such ornamentation as may be required is secured thereon and a cope is built around, of such strength as the magnitude of the bell demands. The subsequent operations consist of lifting of the cope, taking away the thickness, finishing the moulds, drying, and closing in the pit as for any other casting.
For the common run of bells a more ready way is provided. These are invariably made in perforated cast-iron casings, which enable the founder to strike both core and cope separately, closing them together when dry, binding and casting without any subsequent labor of ramming. The core-casing should be small enough to allow a wrapping of straw before applying the loam. The rope burns away and leaves ample room for contraction. See CASINGS; KETTLES; SPINDLE.