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Posted: 5/6/2006 4:50:35 AM EDT
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i need to resharpen center punches, make stake punch for key carrier, make screwdrivers, etc and need to know how hot i should get these metals so they will gain strength when i quench them in oil/water bath...will an ordinary propane torch produce enough heat or should i try something more heavy-duty (not including blow torch with tank bottles) to gain more strength than just case hardening thanks |
| When making tools make sure you are using the proper type of steel. You cant just put heat to any piece of steel and expect it to harden. You must use tool steel.O-1, A-2, A-6 ,D-2, etc. 0-1 is a good choice for making tools in the home workshop, it machines and heat treats easily. To heat treat O-1 heat the working area of the tool witha torch(MAPPgas or PROPANE ) to a bright red/orange color and quench in OIL NOT WATER! If you quench in water the water will boil around the tool creating air bubbles that will cling to the tool resulting in soft spots in the steel. After you heat treat you must temper the steel to avoid chipping / cracking the tool. Polish off the scale and discoloring from the steel using a wire brush, steel wool or some emery paper. Using your torch heat the working end of the tool to a straw yellow/ light to med blue color. this will give you the proper temper in the steel and will give the tool a longer working life. HTH, PATRIOT ARMORY 07 FFL |
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