College of Fine Arts | The University of New South Wales - Sydney - Australia

Melting wax | The College of Fine Arts

General

Melting wax

Friday, 25 November, 2005

[View all General]

wax melting in a metal saucepan

Hazards

  • Hot wax
  • Spills and splashes
  • Electrical
  • Overheating wax


Personal protective equipment required

   

eye, glove, apron, shoe

Precautions to take when melting wax

  • For safety, wax should be melted over boiling water in a double boiler. Wax should NEVER be heated directly over an open flame or burner. Direct heat can cause wax to explode, resulting in serious injury.
  • NEVER heat wax in an oven or microwave
  • If using an electric fry pan or hot plate to melt wax make sure it is set at the lowest temperature.
  • Never leave hot wax unattended. Remove container of molten wax from the heat if you plan to leave the room for any reason.
  • ALWAYS use potholders or pliers when handling hot pots or cans.
  • NEVER pour water on a wax fire. Water will cause the fire to spread. To extinguish a fire, cover the pan with its lid or fire blanket. Use a dry chemical fire extinguisher if available.