Tempering with Salts?

[Shaw Blades]

I am putting together a rig for tempering with salts and have gotten some good info on the subject from one of my favorite bladesmiths. I didn't want to bug him with anymore questions so I'm asking you all.

I have read about the dangers of water getting into high temp salt tanks and all of the other possible dangers. I'm wondering though, if I quench in oil using a standard heat treat oven would the blade need to be TOTALLY cleaned of oil before going into the salt temper? Does oil going into salt pose any danger or at worst would it just contaminate the salts?

Thanks gents.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Wipe it clean, wash it off, wipe it dry, and put in the salt.

If doing a marquench, wipe it clean several times and put in the salt before it cools below 400F.

Keep the salts covered tightly when not in use, as they are hygroscopic.

 

[Shaw Blades]

Wipe it clean, wash it off, wipe it dry, and put in the salt.

If doing a marquench, wipe it clean several times and put in the salt before it cools below 400F.

Keep the salts covered tightly when not in use, as they are hygroscopic.

Thanks