Zirconium Handles????

Holt

Holt

Joined
Mar 11, 2014
Messages
43
I want to make a set of frame lock folder handles from zirconium. I’ve read the stuff is damn farmable and can only be extinguished with a class 4 fire extinguisher. Depending on what you read, it seems like the real risk is somewhat up for debate. I’d like to get a feel from the guys that have machined it if it is really that dangerous. I attached a pic of a titanium set of my handles. The zirc ones would be the same. All of this would be made on a CNC machine and there would be just a little hand sanding afterwards.

My final question is how springy is the stuff. Can I make the lockbar side from zirc too or not?


Thanks for your input!
JoeDSC04266.JPG DSC04279.JPG
 
my understanding is the lock can not be made from zirconium, 6AL4V Titanium with a zinc overlay maybe, but not solid Zirc.
 
Zirc will work for most everything besides the lock bar, it does not spring like Ti. It has a bit of spring and will work for clips, I like to leave a bit of clearance on them so they do not move much.

Make sure it is well finished, it shows scratches easily when colored especially with a sanded finish... also the oxide is extremely tough and hard to grind off so finishing once is best. Top notch material in my opinion. It catches fire just like Ti but a bit easier and can light on it's own in small pieces.
 
When I get a bent piece of zirconium, I straighten it with my hands.

Zirc has about the same spring properties as copper or brass. It is not a good material for lock bars or pocket clips.

Chuck
 
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