Darrin Sanders
Moderator
Carbon-0.75
Chromium-0.80
Manganese-0.70
Molybdenum-0.30
Silicon-0.25
Nickel-1.50
These numbers are just and example. Refer to the actual manufacturer for the exact chemistry.
L6 is a low alloy oil hardening tool steel. The high Nickel content makes it extremely tough. The edge holding isn't as good as other steels but it still makes a good knife. It is an excellent choice for big choppers and swords.
Here is a good starting point for heat treating L6. You may need to make adjustments to allow for maximize results on your equipment.
1. Heat to 1500-1550 and soak for 10-20 minutes.
2. Quench.
3. Temper twice for 2 hours each time. Temper between 350 & 1000 depending on application.
You may want to add Normalization or thrermal cycling heats to refine the grain. A good Normalization temp. is 1600.
Chromium-0.80
Manganese-0.70
Molybdenum-0.30
Silicon-0.25
Nickel-1.50
These numbers are just and example. Refer to the actual manufacturer for the exact chemistry.
L6 is a low alloy oil hardening tool steel. The high Nickel content makes it extremely tough. The edge holding isn't as good as other steels but it still makes a good knife. It is an excellent choice for big choppers and swords.
Here is a good starting point for heat treating L6. You may need to make adjustments to allow for maximize results on your equipment.
1. Heat to 1500-1550 and soak for 10-20 minutes.
2. Quench.
3. Temper twice for 2 hours each time. Temper between 350 & 1000 depending on application.
You may want to add Normalization or thrermal cycling heats to refine the grain. A good Normalization temp. is 1600.