Hamon question regarding refractory mortar.

[HPD]

I’ve got some Rutland furnace cement, Noscale 2000 (which is supposedly not for making hamon) and Rutland Dry Mix 211 refractory mortar. I was thinking of using some combination of the Noscale and furnace cement to make a hamon, but I was wondering why I couldn’t use the mortar instead. It supposedly bonds to metal and is used for parge coatings. Any thoughts?

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I find Rutland's furnace cement not all that great. You have to put it on too thick.

The mortar should work fine if mixed to the consistency of yogurt. For the wash coat, mix it to the consistency of a melted ice cream or melted milkshake.

 

[HPD]

I find Rutland's furnace cement not all that great. You have to put it on too thick.

The mortar should work fine if mixed to the consistency of yogurt. For the wash coat, mix it to the consistency of a melted ice cream or melted milkshake.

Thank you. I'm guessing I could use the NoScale for the wash coat and the mortar for making the hamon pattern. The mortar is dry mix so I can play with the consistency. I might experiment with some coupons before trying it with a blade. I see that you've referenced Walter Sorrells in other threads. I will review his videos before attempting.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Yes, the No-Scale should work for the wash coat. It is just a thin wash of clay. It helps with the hamon clarity.