Phophor Bronze Washers

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firstDamascus

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Oct 31, 2014
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Should phosphor bronze washers scratch/burnish the blade tang? Aren't they substantially softer than the blade steel?
 
firstDamascus said:
Should phosphor bronze washers scratch/burnish the blade tang? Aren't they substantially softer than the blade steel?
Click to expand...

Someone else on the Internet has asked a similar question. The asker wants to know how much two different materials wear when abrading each other. He notes that softer materials can indeed wear out harder materials, otherwise wood saw blades would never need to be replaced.

It's also possible that the scratches are not caused by the washers, but by minute particles of debris trapped between the blade and the washer.
 
The two common washers are Phosphor bronze and Nylatron [Nylon impregnated with M2O] .Normally these will wear very well. I think your problem is debris.
 
Phosphor Bronze is an alloy of copper, tin and phosphorus .
The alloy is notable for its toughness, strength, low coefficient of friction, and fine grain.
It is chosen due to low friction...slippery...and is much softer than your blade-steel. They generally last forever, and in the case that they do wear a little, just flip them over and continue.
Part of the problem with saw blades cutting wood is the extreme heat buildup which softens the steel and makes the teeth wear more quickly.
The suggestions of grit are very likely your culprit.
 
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If you look closely under bright light you'll notice the washers are burnished/scratched as well. It's because the culprit is debris.

The 'wear' you see is likely harmless.....sort of like being able to see a detent track on the same tang. Try not to Jones on it--overcompensating with lube or flushing isn't the answer. Rely more on feel or sound to know if you have a lube problem.
 
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