How to Harden Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is used to make a variety of objects. Because it's not as strong as other metals, it bends and dents easily. You can harden aluminum through a process called quenching, which has been used by blacksmiths for centuries. By heating and then rapidly cooling the metal, you will cause it to harden significantly.
Instructions
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Fill a container with water. It must be large enough to completely submerge the aluminum object.
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Allow the water to reach room temperature.
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Place the aluminum object onto a concrete or metal surface.
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Put on goggles, as well as thick leather gloves and jacket.
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Light a blowtorch and adjust the gas until the flame is bright blue. The blowtorch must not exceed 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit as aluminum melts at 1,220 degrees. A temperature of 700 to 900 degrees is ideal.
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Pass the flame over the aluminum object until it begins to glow red. Keep the torch moving at all times to keep the heat even across the entire object.
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Turn off the blowtorch and set it aside.
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Pick up the aluminum object with a set of steel or iron tongs and submerge it in the water. Keep it in the water until the surface stops bubbling.
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Tips & Warnings
Never quench aluminum in cold water. The thermal shock could cause the metal to shatter.
Quenching produces a large amount of steam, which can cause burns if you're not careful.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
