Problem with ATF Quench

Hankins

Hankins

Joined
Dec 7, 2008
Messages
2,936
No not that ATF as in feds:D
Are there any problems associated with using ATF to quench 1095?
 
Yes. 1095 has about the fastest quench speed requirement of any steel you're likely to come across. ATF was not designed as a quench oil, so there is no control of the vapor jacket during quench, leading to uneven and slow cooling in spots, which can lead to other structures other than the martensite you want.

Warming the oil will increase the quench speed by reducing viscosity. It should be hot to the touch, around 120. You should agitate vigorously to disrupt the vapor jacket. This will improve your quench and the homogeneity of the steel, and reduce warping.

Or you could spend $15 on a gallon of McMaster 11 second quench oil.

Some folks get good results with 1095 in "non quench oil" oils, but I have found it simpler not to fight with it and get a "proper oil". I don't miss the flame ups, fumes and burnt on crud either.
 
Nathan is right, spend the 15-20 bux... next to your steel your quenchant IS THEE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR KNIFE MAKING PROCESS!

Jason
 
Well... I wouldn't go that far...

Perhaps the "quench", not the "quenchant". I'm not down on folks who quench in "non standard" oils, or even goop. As long as they know what they're doing. Fine by me. But speaking for myself personally, I've had better luck with a "proper" oil and I feel it can help you reduce variables and opportunities for Murphy to show up. But I'm pretty sure you can harden 1095 in ATF, my only question would be why?
 
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