Odd O1 heat treat question.

M

Mike Read

Joined
Mar 27, 2015
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117
I am making a full tang O1 15 inch camp knife, a one off for now, I usually only do much smaller stuff.

My quench tank is deep enough to get the blade in but only part of the handle.

I would through harden and temper the whole blade if I could, but need to get this one done pronto and don't want to mess around getting a deeper tank for just the one blade.

Steel will be hardened and tempered to about 60Rc

Does anyone know in what state this will leave the un-quenched section of handle?

Is it dangerous - a fire risk ? - am using veg oil.

Will it be too soft and likely to bend break? Could the zone between hard and soft become a week-spot? etc

I know I should find a deeper tank but have to get this done tomorrow and haven't got the time to source one.

Thanks

Mike
 
Not sure if this is a good idea but have you thought of doing a horizontal quench in a diaposable tin foil baking tray. You can get one for cheap at a grocery store and get some extra oil while your there. I will admit i have never tried it just an idea. Good luck.
 
You will be probably be fine, but may get some flare up in the beginning.

A deeper tank would be a better idea.

Look around, they are everywhere. Old CO2 or oxygen tanks can be cut off to make super quench tanks.

Tall thin trash cans, old soda syrup tanks (they hold about 4 gallons).

A length of 4" iron pipe welded to a base plate, etc.

A trip to the local junk/recycling yard will find a lot. If they won't let you browse about, tell them what you need and they should be able to grab something. Welders supply places will often give you an out of date tank.

A visit to the local syrup supplier, or beer supplier for a tank with a damaged top or valve usually gets a free tank. If you have a friend who runs a place that sells soda ( hamburger joint or restaurant), they will likely hand you a tank.

I would give you a tank if you were closer to me.
 
Thanks Stacey

I did the job today and only the last inch and a half of the handle didnt get submerged. I am happy it will not be detrimental to the knife, it is a prototype for my own use and testing so its not a big deal.

I will keep my eyes open for a dive cylinder, fire extinguisher etc. Will also ask at the scrappy next time I go.
 
O1 has enough manganese (~1.2%) that it wants to harden whenever it gets to austenitizing temperatures, whether it gets quenched or not. So I suspect your unquenched section is probably pretty hard (45-50 HRC).
 
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