Im working on a small batch of cheif knives using W2 for the blade. I wanted to use HC damascus for the bolster, but can't find any thats thick enough. So the plan is to use some 304 stainless. I think I read somewhere, some time ago, that there could be some sort of reaction between SS and HCS. If anyone has some words of wisdom, I would appreciate your input. Also, if you know were I can get some .375 thick Damascus billet, let me know.
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Stainless steel bolster on W2 blade.. Any issues?
- Thread starter DARblades
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Alex Topfer
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I suppose there could be some electrochemical reaction between the two, although i would expect SS to be less prone to that. Brass, copper, or bronze would be more prone to that. That said, i've had brewing equipment with mixed copper and stainless with no issue. No real experience with the mix in knives.
It wouldn't stop me, I would use the stainless.
It wouldn't stop me, I would use the stainless.
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I believe the reaction of interest is galvanic corrosion : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galvanic_corrosion
I am not an expert in this domain.
In the context of chef's knives, I am of the understanding it can be mostly ignored. Most of the time, there shouldn't be an electrolyte (salt, soap, whatever) present. If there is, it isn't for very long periods, and there isn't substantial heat present.
To be safe, the contact between the metals can be brazed or epoxied together to keep a water-tight seal.
More discussion on the topic can be found here : https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/no-wonder-people-cant-solder.1625508/#post-18571570
I am not an expert in this domain.
In the context of chef's knives, I am of the understanding it can be mostly ignored. Most of the time, there shouldn't be an electrolyte (salt, soap, whatever) present. If there is, it isn't for very long periods, and there isn't substantial heat present.
To be safe, the contact between the metals can be brazed or epoxied together to keep a water-tight seal.
More discussion on the topic can be found here : https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/no-wonder-people-cant-solder.1625508/#post-18571570
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People use stainless steel guards and bolsters all the time. Your fine.
Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith
ilmarinen - MODERATOR
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Galvanic action requires submersion in an electrolyte and two metals with greatly differencing galvanic potential. It does not greatly affect stainless/carbon junctions anyway. There is no reason not to use stainless bolsters on carbon blades if you want to.
jdm61
itinerant metal pounder
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The funniest example that I ever saw of galvanic corrosion was the balconies of san entire beachfront condo building in West Palm Beach. They had used aluminum railing and it had not bee properly treated. It got hooked up with the rebar and started eatign itself and fizzling way at the concrete a bit. I saw funny because didn't own a condo in the building. 