Heat Treating A2 Steel

johnnyjump

Well-Known Member
I have an electric kiln that ramps up to a maximum of 1700 degrees fahrenheit. The recommended temperature for A2 austenitization is 1750 degrees. Can I adjust for the lower temperature some how in the annealing phase, and if not, will the difference in temperature significantly effect the Rockwell hardness? I am shooting for a target hardness of about 60. The blade I am working with measures 9" X 2" x 1/4". I would appreciate any advice, as this is my first experience with A2.
Thanks
 
I've never hardened A2 at 1700 but it should work. It wont be optimum and as quenched hardness will be lower. You'll have to play with the temper to see what works best. I suggest starting your temper at 300 and work up from there.
Your blade should be a bit tougher than normal because of the lower hardening temp.. Good luck.
 
I just figured out how to re-program my kiln controller to increase the maximum temperature to the required 1750, so I'm good to go now. Thanks for your input!
 
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