Identify Steel Type
30 minutesidentify steel type with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
Field context
This workflow is part of 1 niche field
Learn heat treating steel from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
identify steel type with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
normalize before hardening with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
austenitize and quench with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
temper to target hardness with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
test edge retention with precision, following established blacksmithing methods and verifying results at each stage.
Key benchmarks for heat treating steel.
| Color | Temp °F | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Dark red | 1200 | Forge weld |
| Orange | 1600 | Drawing |
| Yellow | 1900 | Risk burn |
Use a magnet — when steel stops being magnetic, it has reached critical temperature (1420°F for 1080).
Watch oxide colors: straw (400°F) for edges, blue (600°F) for springs.
Minimize forge time at high heat to prevent surface carbon loss.