SHELLAC
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Shellac is a substance secreted by the female lac bug which can be found mainly in India, Thailand, and Myanmar. It is a natural polymer with a melting point of 75°C. In its paste or liquid form, shellac exhibits excellent adhesion properties across a wide range of materials, making it highly valued in horology.
Historically, shellac has been used to secure pallets (jewels) in their slots on the lever plate. During the finishing process, a watchmaker can slightly heat the lever to soften the shellac, enabling precise adjustment of the pallets to ensure the flawless functioning of the escapement. Once the shellac cools, it hardens, firmly fixing the pallets in place.
Shellac is also employed to secure components on a holder or to attach a hand tool to its handle. Additionally, it serves as a binder in the production of certain stones, like shellac stones. Abrasive powder is mixed with melted shellac in the desired proportions, then moulded and cooled to form the stone.
The low melting point of shellac makes it easy to work with and ensures it does not compromise the thermal treatments of the components it contacts in its liquid or paste form. Shellac dissolves and cleans up easily with alcohol.