tools, materials & knowledge for model makers
Heat treatment is used for many different types of metal and for many different effects. Here is an overview of the heat treatment methods along with links to more in-depth details. Annealing Heating to and holding at a suitable temperature and then cooling at a suitable rate, for such purposes as reducing hardness, improving machinability, … Read more
I forgot to buy soft copper washers and so ended up Making Soft Copper Washers. |I know, this feels a bit extreme, but I really wanted them now so that I can run a proper steam test on my small vertical boiler. A strip of copper is drilled slightly undersize. This means I can finish … Read more
Prometheus Mini Kiln PRO-1 PRG is a small electric kiln of 700W and able to reach 1000°C. The chamber is small at 115 x 130 x 70mm but very usable. The real beauty of this for me as a model maker is the ability to heat treat small metal parts as this kiln has a … Read more
This article is all about heat treating silver steel. There are many different types of steel, silver steel a really useful material for the hobbyist if you learn about heat treating it. Heat uniformly to 770-780°C until heated through. Quench in water. Sizes up to 8mm or 5/16” dia may be oil hardened from 800-810°C. … Read more