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| What caused this? |
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| adamriley:
Hi all. I have hardened plenty of silver steel in my kiln, but today I experienced something I've not come across before (and wouldn't you know it was for a customer, and no, I don't have any more 'in stock' :Doh:) The part was heated in the kiln (set for 800c as it runs a little lower), and when ready quenched in water. As usual it was a little 'scaly', so I stuck it in a cordless drill to spin it with some scotchbrite pad. However, there is some SERIOUS pitting on the surface. I mean this thing looks like a leopard! What went wrong, do you think? The only thing I can think is that it was some kind of reaction to something on the surface, but I can't see how that would cause deep pitting. The part, by the way was SMOOTH, almost polished before being heated. Adam. |
| awemawson:
Did you make it yourself for the customer or did he bring it in for hardening. ie do you know for sure what it was made from? Obviously you've had oxidisation in the kiln, so either the material was more susceptible or the kiln atmosphere was more corrosive than you've previously experienced. What was the kiln used for last - any residues of anything left in there. (I've seen certain enamels cause odd effects if someones been using the kiln for jewelry previously. Critical stuff I wrap tightly in stainless steel foil (with a sliver of wood to absorb the oxygen within the parcel) |
| adamriley:
Thanks for the reply. I made it myself from silver steel (not sure what grade though). The kiln is only used for heat treatment. I'm going to have a go with some offcuts to see if A. it does it again and B. if I can figure out how to stop it. Where do you get stainless steel foil from? Thanks again. Adam. |
| Arbalist:
--- Quote from: awemawson on March 01, 2013, 03:30:41 AM --- Critical stuff I wrap tightly in stainless steel foil (with a sliver of wood to absorb the oxygen within the parcel) --- End quote --- I've heard of this before. What grade/thickness SS is best and where can you get it in UK? |
| awemawson:
I have some stock that I bought literally 10 plus years ago and am still using - forget where I got it - it's maybe a thou thick perhaps less. I know it cost a kings ransom when I bought it, but I don't use much. I also know it cuts your hand 'orribly if you're not careful :doh: |
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