How to Make Hardened Steel Rods

Heat and cool steel rods to make them hard.

The process of hardening metal is known as annealing. The annealing process heats the metal before cooling it down quickly. Annealing or hardening a steel rod requires a container large enough to submerge the hot rod completely in cold water. A safe location is also a requirement, as the steel rod is heated to a red-hot stage. An outdoor location or an open garage are ideal for hardening a steel rod.

Things You'll Need

• Water container
• Water
• Bench vise on metal stand or large anvil
• Steel rod
• Safety glasses
• Acetylene torch
• Striker
• Welding gloves
• Heavy-duty cast iron tongs

Instructions

1. Move the bench vise on a metal base away from any combustible material. Secure one end of the steel rod in the bench vise so it is on a horizontal axis.

2. Fill a container large enough to hold the length of the steel rods with water. Place the container within 3 feet of the bench vise base.

3. Put on the safety glasses. Light the acetylene torch with a striker and put on the welding gloves.

4. Hold the end of the flame approximately 2 inches from the surface of the steel rod. Move the flame in small circles while moving it the length of the steel rod shaft. Continue this process until the steel rod glows red hot.

5. Turn off the acetylene torch. Grab the red hot steel rod with heavy duty cast iron tongs. Loosen the bench vise.

6. Immediately dip the red hot rod in the cool water. Drop the steel rod to the bottom of the container. Allow the rod to cool for 15 minutes before removing.

References

• Technology Student: Annealing Metals