Cast Steel Axe

I feel like I have more control with electrolysis than vinegar or rust removers. This is my favorite axe.
e837lj.jpg

I was able to save the deep patina and remove the surface rust.
I had a head that had a nail at the front of the eye. It was so rusted in that it looked like part of the head. Electrolysis revealed the nail and it taped right out.
 
Last edited:
No I haven't but I am aware of the product.

As far as what's best I don't know as flip flop around. The hands on that I can base an opinion on is a piece I cut from a double bit I hung about a 1/4 inch thick. I used elmers cow hoof wood glue and to the best of my preteen female Facebook strength I can't break it.
 
The glue basically creates a permanent bond but then we get into a an argument over the proper way, the best way and the right way to wedge a handle.
 
Hydrogen Embrittlement - acid etching ,plating , are the two likely causes for it. For softer steel it's not a problem .For harder steels it can be corrected by baking at 350F. Hydrogen ions in the steel from plating can diffuse , join up as H2 and in time create a very dangerous situation !!

42B is right the term cast steel has changed .Today the axe could be cast to shape , sand cast or investment cast .The old way is a different process.
 
mete said:
Hydrogen Embrittlement - acid etching ,plating , are the two likely causes for it. For softer steel it's not a problem .For harder steels it can be corrected by baking at 350F. Hydrogen ions in the steel from plating can diffuse , join up as H2 and in time create a very dangerous situation !!

42B is right the term cast steel has changed .Today the axe could be cast to shape , sand cast or investment cast .The old way is a different process.
Click to expand...

Thanks for confirming, I seemed to recall that the higher the HRC, the worse it can get.
 
Are we seeing the line between the bit and head steel in that shot? Looks like possibly an inserted bit vs an overlaid, which is also pretty cool. If that's the case and given the use of the term "Cast Steel" it's probably relatively old. Pre ~1950 anyway.
 
cityofthesouth said:
Are we seeing the line between the bit and head steel in that shot? Looks like possibly an inserted bit vs an overlaid, which is also pretty cool. If that's the case and given the use of the term "Cast Steel" it's probably relatively old. Pre ~1950 anyway.
Click to expand...

In one spot on that love you can feel the transition. I can take better pics later
 
Hardness isn't the factor in increased likelihood of hydrogen embrittlement so much as carbon content. It creates a more interrupted molecular surface that the hydrogen can get more easily lodged in.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top