color codes for steel

[Rick Lowe]

Is there a standard paint color code that steel producers use to designate different steel types?
Rick

 

[Tom Militano]

I wish there was, but it varies from producer to producer. It sure would make life a lot more simple at times if there was a standard.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

The best color code is to get some white paint markers and write the steel type on the bar as soon as you get it.I write it on both sides and both ends.The white paint markers have a titanium dioxide pigment that will still be there even after HT on stainless steel.I mark my name and steel type on all my blade tangs before going to HT and the marking is still there after it comes back.

 

[Tom Militano]

I do the same thing. The second the steel comes out of the package it gets marked.