materials for custom stemware

[snorcan]

Hi FC, my wife is a talented metal smith and so I'm thinking of commissioning her to make me some nice stems for my MFLB. And so I'm wondering what materials the vaping community would or would not sick through. Options for handcrafted stems, either hand formed or cast are: silver, brass, copper.... any other materials that you could advise on trying and/or avoiding?

Starting simple, I would like a simple stem but about half to 2/3 the length of the stock MFLB stem, then try a longer S curve, kind of like a Sherlock pipe....

Gold is another option if I'm feeling uber spendy on materials....but not likely!!

 

[Delta3DStudios]

My suggestion - stick with 316T Stainless Steel. Aluminum has also been used, but I get the impression more people prefer medical grade Stainless Steel

 

[smokum]

She could always do mock-ups for testing with the least expensive & easier to work with metals, before doing a final in (as suggested) the medical grade SS

 

[Delta3DStudios]

Just be careful with metal shavings!

I read a horror story on another forum about a guy who made a pipe from copper and took a "dry hit" before using it. Copper shavings entered his lungs, causing major pain in his lungs for over 6 months - had to give up combusting because the smoke was too harsh!

 

[snorcan]

Ouch, will avoid inhaling shavings!! Mock ups are usually done first in copper as it is easy to work.

 

[RUDE BOY]

Since the magic flight stems don't really get warm never mind hot I would think most materials would work. Don't they use Brass on the new maud-Dib whips ?
I think Brass would look pretty sweet with my walnut box.

 

[howie105]

If she has the tools putting a slight tapper on a stem might be helpful when the original hole in the box loosens through use. Perhaps changing the lips end of the stem (larger, different shape, etc.) sort of like the Dart stem does might be nicer looking and more functional too. If she works wire then a simple removable wrap like jacket for the standard stem might be nice too. On materials I too like stainless.