Decarb "paint"

[Cecil Self]

Can anyone suggest a good Decarb paint/coating for use on tool steel to about 1500-1600 F? I've been using Vitragrid from Sheffields Knifemakers Supply but I'm not particularly happy with it. Even with multiple coats it seems to occasionaly leave a thin spot resulting in a decarb streak running down the length of the blade. Depending on the depth, this can be a real PAIN to smooth back out.

I was curious if anyone had any experience with Turco TU2 from K&G or a similar brand. I have stainless foil but would like to avoid using it if possible. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Cecil

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Cecil Self
SELF Knives
Arrow-Dynamics Cutting Tools
www.arrow-dynamics.com

[This message has been edited by Cecil Self (edited 08-03-2000).]

 

[Howard Clark]

I have friends that use the Turco stuff and like it fine. If you are doing simple steels, though, a salt pot is a better set-up. I would not go back to heat treating any other way at this point. No decarb problems as a rule, faster heat transfer and a little better temp. control too. Some of the industrial coating, copper based products to stop carburizing in case hardening operations would likely work well too, though I haven't tried any of them. Usually they are referred to as "stop off" coatings I think.