Casting aluminum - with a stick welder?

Today I experimented with melting down scrap aluminum cans using my welder in stick mode. While it undoubtedly uses more electricity than a proper kiln or furnace, it appears to be an effective method, and will do the job until I get a better option. Let me know if you have suggestions for improving the process! Music from https://filmmusic.io "Backbay Lounge" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...) "Sidewalk Shade" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...)