Remembering mentors to the metalcasting industry.

I sadly read of the passing of Roy Burritt (MODERN CASTING, September 2005). I recall a brief experience with Roy that has taught me a valuable lesson I would like to pass on to readers of my generation.

Several years ago, my team and I installed a test foundry in Georgia to support process development work for our company. Having limited experience in the actual making of sand molds, we explored several options, and ultimately selected a nobake mixer using resins from Roy's company. Explaining our end goals for the test foundry, we were very pleased when both Bill Kloster Sr. and Roy Burritt volunteered to come spend a few days with us to teach us the art of mold-making. This was an unforgettable and invaluable experience--these two passed on their lifetime of learning to help us get going with great success. I still can see Bill doing a permeability test on a sample by holding it to his lips and seeing how long it took to blow through it with Roy cracking jokes about Bill's blowing ability in the background! Scientific? Maybe not. Instructive, both in principle and practice? You better believe it!

I relate this story simply to say: Thanks Bill K. and Roy for setting an example of sharing your experience with a younger generation. We miss your presence in this venerable industry, and will do our best to continue to share our experience with those who come behind. I know I couldn't do what I can today were it not for the "old dogs" who wiped my ears and showed me how.

JIM LEWIS 

COASTAL RIVER TECHNOLOGIES LLC 

CALABASH, N.C.