Hello Gang!
I noticed that there is an induction heater in the metal shop. Anyone know if it is functional and/or how to use it? I am looking to heat treat one half of some 1.5" long pieces of .25" round O1 tool steel. It can be done with a propane torch and a piece of firebrick, but it takes a few minutes and the videos of induction heat treating make it looks like awesome black magic wizardry.
I don’t think it’s functional. Does anyone know if the blacksmith group is still active? I haven’t seen anyone use that stuff in a while and there are no events scheduled as far as I can see.
I don’t believe there is an outlet for it. The plan is to put a switch panel in so either the plasma cutter or induction heater is in use at the same time. This will eliminate the need to run another circuit back to there. It would be the rare occasion both are in use at the same time or for very very long.
It was my impression that Blacksmithing/Forge was going to have the electrical work done when they got the grant to buy the equipment. But that is just my impression.
An induction heater IS an awesome item. Will allow annealing quickly, rapid heating to permit quench tempering fast, and allow forging smaller objects in the Metal Shop without and open flame so work can be done inside.
I hope it gets connected up and classes given in near future. When connected I can see knife making classes taking off.
Would also be great for making our own lathe gouges, if there is any want/desire (and pre-existing experience) for this.
Who cares about those medieval woodshapers/choppers - this is the age steel and machines! Making bowls for the women folk is nice … but knives for men, warriors … let the hammers pound plows into swords!
Someone answered my question offline. The blacksmith group is taking a break until cooler weather. Makes sense to me!