How to Cut D2 Steel
American Iron and Steel Institute grade D2 tool steel is a high carbon, high alloy steel used primarily to make dies, punches and other cutting or forming machine parts. Though it is a relatively expensive form of steel, the added resistance to wear makes it ideal for these applications. Because it is designed for such tough work, it can be difficult to cut. Softening the steel through the annealing process greatly reduces the time it takes to cut the steel and the wear on the cutting tool. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Soften, Then Cut
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Set the oven or forge to 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit (870 degrees Celsius). Once the temperature is reached place the steel to be cut in the oven. Once the steel reaches 1,600 degrees allow it to soak in the oven for at least two hours.
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Slowly lower the temperature by 50 degrees each hour until the steel reaches a temperature of 1,200 degrees F (650 C).
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Remove the steel from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature in the air.
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One cool, place the steel on the chop saw. Start the blade and with slow, steady pressure push the blade through the steel to cut.
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Tips & Warnings
When cutting the steel allow the weight of the saw blade cut the steel. Putting pressure on it can heat the blade too much and damage it, reducing the cutting power of the saw.
Heat-treating steel involves extreme temperatures. Caution and proper safety equipment is necessary to prevent severe burns.
References
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