Tool Steel – Knife Making

Presented by:

Noah Nordhoff

Joseph Easterbrook

ENGR 45

Fall Semester 2010

Dr. Younes Yataiiyan

Choosing the right steel:

Ability to harden, anneal and work

Specific Properties High Carbon (.35%+)

Tool – 1095 (Ka-Bar) Stainless

440 (A B C) Alloy

Preliminary metal tests:High Carbon (see dark carbide area) Large File - pre-anneal

Low Carbon- Alloy? (see light ferrite area) Small File – post-anneal

From file to flat stock:

Anneal & test softness Kiln – Cone 4 (over 2100

deg. F) http://

www.claymentality.net/index.php?pagekey=conechart

Remove Ferrous Oxide

Sand to remove more burrs – desired finish

Remove Ferrous Oxide and test softness

Shaping the blade

Rough out design Sketch on blank Cut off extra material

Grind Rough out shape Thin desired sections Start to form the blade

File Smooth ground sections/

define blade structure

Grind & File Safety First!

Quenching

Need to add hardness Use blow torch to heat

blade Quench in water Alternate: Wrap blade in

clay except for sharp edge, then place in kiln at ~2000 deg F and quench

http://evergreen-rentals.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2_40

Form Handle

Create “pommel” or finger guard

Create shoulder at end to prevent hand from slipping

Will later cover in wood and rivet or epoxy in place

Conclusion

Absolutely have to use hard metal such as high carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium alloy, etc.

Must anneal high carbon steel Form steel to desired shape Harden blade for long lasting sharpness

Acknowledgment

Many thanks to my sister Ruth and her boss for letting us use the Kiln, also to my Dad and brother for the files and tips for grinding.

Questions?