Japanese Sword Quenching

Chris Evans · 26th June 2009, 11:09 PM

Hi Kisak,

Steam is generally considered the enemy of heat transfer because it is a thermal insulator relative to water. For this reason, if a very fast quench (cooling) is desired, salt is added to the water to minimize the stem envelope that otherwise would form around the blade. I haven't read that article in full, only raced through it as I have major construction works on my house to oversee.

Cheers
Chris

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26th June 2009, 11:09 PM	#3
Chris Evans Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Australia Posts: 685	Hi Kisak, Steam is generally considered the enemy of heat transfer because it is a thermal insulator relative to water. For this reason, if a very fast quench (cooling) is desired, salt is added to the water to minimize the stem envelope that otherwise would form around the blade. I haven't read that article in full, only raced through it as I have major construction works on my house to oversee. Cheers Chris