Tool Steel –

Knife Making

Presented by:Noah NordhoffJoseph Easterbrook

ENGR 45Fall Semester 2010Dr. 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?