Recommendation? Quench Plate thickness

I hope this isn't too far off topic but what type of Aluminum should be used? Does it matter? I was just checking Onlinemetals.com and there's a number of types to choose from.
 
Kevin McGovern said:
My thought process has been that since the directions for heat treat of AEB-L (what I'm using, so that's my example) is to quench in still air. So the only real reason for plates is to prevent warp. A secondary benefit being reduced time to get down to Sub zero quench time. If my blades aren't warping, and I'm hitting my hardness target, is what I'm doing an issue?
Click to expand...

Then I'd say you're GTG. If you were having a problem, I'd look at using a vise. I use one because the furnace is right next to one and it's more convenient for me to slap them in the vise than stand on them or whatever.
 
Aluminum is like anything else, SHOP. There are several stores on eBay that sell aluminum drops for 1/2 the price Onlinemetals charges. try your local machine shop. I found two free pieces 3/4 x 5 x 18 that were scrapped because some holes weren't drilled right.
 
Online metals would be my last choice although they're not bad when you need something specific. But plates don't need to be specific.
 
Robert Erickson said:
I hope this isn't too far off topic but what type of Aluminum should be used? Does it matter? I was just checking Onlinemetals.com and there's a number of types to choose from.
Click to expand...
The seller I bought from on ebay has more. 45 bucks shipped isn't bad. I'm sure you couls do better digging around at a scrap yard but time is one thing I don't have much of. Here is a link.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/332253769624
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top