Event Description
*PLACES LIMITED TO ALLOW SPACING*
Some of the most important decisions in conservation and restoration relate to material selection. In some cases, using inappropriate repair materials can reduce the lifespan of an object more than leaving it alone. But deciding which materials to use is not always a straightforward matter, based as it is on a complex balance of knowledge and judgement.
So what questions should we be asking of the fabric we are conserving and the materials we use to do it? And how do we prioritise competing factors to reach a decision on treatment? Join us as we bring together a range of experienced professionals to share their decision-making processes.
The Journey of Materials, Rhys Brookes, Conservation Architect
Understanding the journey of materials from origin to object is key to being able to conserve them. Rhys will give an overview of historic building materials, charting the processes they undergo from source to product, and examining the impact of this journey on their form, use and life-cycle.
Microstructure and Making Alan Williams, Archaeometallurgist, The Wallace Collection
Cutting-edge technology has enabled micro-level examination of historic ferrous metals, but how does this help us understand what we’re working with? Since the distinct properties of metal alloys are a direct result of their microstructure, it is essential to first understand the making process which dictates that microstructure. Drawing on decades of specialist research, Alan will examine historical ironmaking processes and assess the impact they have on the nature of the alloys produced.
Choosing the right overcoat: a study of paint for wrought iron Peter Meehan, Metals Conservator
Ultimately, the only thing that stops iron from corroding is its coating. As the first line of defence, choice of coating is perhaps the most important material decision you will make. Yet the paint coating systems currently used in the conservation of historic ironwork were originally designed for use on modern iron and steel structures, not specifically for wrought iron. Peter will discuss his current PhD research into the performance of three paint systems on wrought iron: alkyd oil-based, epoxy resin/acrylic urethane and traditional lead-based paint.
Material Selection for Repairs, Dave Gent, Bridge Engineer & Geoff Wallis, Metalwork Conservator
Selecting materials for repair work is a complex balancing act between compatibility, longevity and context. So how do conservators prioritise these competing factors and make their choice? Drawing on their respective areas of expertise, Geoff and Dave will analyse the material characteristics they look for and how they match this to the repair in hand.
With case studies involving both wrought and cast iron, they will discuss how they select materials for common repairs such as section replacement, joining and gap filling.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SPEAKERS HERE
YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE FULL PROGRAMME HERE
Please join us at The Argyle pub after the conference – BOOK HERE (no charge)
COVID PROTOCOLS: The room will not be crowded and will be well-ventilated. Lunch will be served in individual boxes. Hand-santizer will be available throughout the day.
TICKET PRICE LEVELS*
NHIG MEMBER
Business/organisation: £75 (£60 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
Individual (self-employed): £55 (£40 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
Student: £35 (£20 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
NON-MEMBER
Business / organisation: £85 (£70 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
Individual (self-employed): £65 (£50 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
Student: £45 (£30 Early Bird until 31st October 2021)
*We aim with our pricing structure to differentiate between those who are self-funding, and those whose ticket will be covered by an employer and who will not lose income by attending.
ALL TICKETS INCLUDE REFRESHMENTS & LUNCH
LIMITED NUMBER OF FREE STUDENT PLACES AVAILABLE (find out more here)