It is a straightforward process, which is used to enhance the appearance of the blade and bring the inherent pattern, lying in wait within the steel, to life. Using an old dental rubber, dial Drums into acids to help remove any fat or fats that may not be available during cleaning, and remove removal materials as acids do their work. The generally accepted shelf life of ferric chloride solution is approximately six months. Michael, it's easier to add more acid and try again than make it too strong and over-etch. Muratic acid is really not the stuff to use for etching especially inside your house or workshop. The only step I did not do was the boil in baking soda. Is it possible to etch Damascus with muriatic acid? Makes the material look like carbon steel Damascus. 1. Use ferric chloride it is much safer and not as corrosive. to 2 parts Hydrogen Peroxide (the common 3% kind that's sold in dollar stores & drugstores for $0.50 a pint) Warning!!!!! But in Vegas Forge, they give that and more. Learn More, click here. From his going on, they have respected their way of access, guided their response, expanded their product line and re-evaluated their unique iDascation process. Damascus Steel the two give much different results. Once your Damascus is sanded to the correct grit, thoroughly wash it with alcohol and pat dry with a clean rag. I agree on the hammer ski Hello Jesse, Step 4: Mix the Etch Acid Put on your rubber gloves. This is commonly sold in home improvement stores and pool supply stores in gallon jugs. Start very dilute, like 1:10 or 1:20. Like is itmore effective on a piece ground to 120, than one polished to 1000? Damascus Steel Knives | Hunting in Damascus. If you're using muriatic acid, you can bring the Damascus up to 1200 grit, or you can leave it at 400 grit. Step Three: Applying the Acid Solution. Let your piece remain in acids for 10 to 15 minutes. Two popular acids to use are Muriatic acid or feric chloride. It is done by submerging the blade in an acid. Etching of Damascus is done after manufacturing or grinding of the blank to bring out the contrasting steel patterns. [woocommerce-edit-address-nonce] => Neutralize the acid and Lightly sand the oxides off with scotch bright or 2000/3000 grit sand paper and re etch (don't touch it with your fingers). . Pretty much unreadable due to very poor English. The acid etching will need to be done outside or in a well-ventilated area, and you should wear rubber gloves and goggles from here on out. This prepares your steel for an even etch. Once it's clean put on your gloves and do not touch it with your bare hands until the whole process is complete. I played with the hot vinegar, didnt like it. Etching Damascus | KnifeDogs.com Forums Before you begin, check the expiration date on your acid of choice to be sure that its not too old. I did a simple twist as I like the way it looks. Share Save Helvetica Comment CaiLei 3 years ago Follow It is an ultra high carbon steel that achieved liquid state which should, theoretically, allow you to get a homogeneous steel product with equal carbon distribution and no slag inclusions at all. Asiatic Muriatic does not require dilution. Never use tap water, spring water, or filtered water - all will cause problems etc. How to Use Muriatic Acid Safely | Hunker Free delivery and returns on eligible orders. Could have probably pypassed this step: dumped 1/2 gallon of phosphoric in the tank and sloshed it around with the cap shut and stoppers in. I just etched my first Damascus blade. This prepares your steel for an even etch. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. It is an ultra high carbon steel that achieved liquid state which should, theoretically, allow you to get a homogeneous steel product with equal carbon distribution and no slag inclusions at all. The etching solution is made by adding 1 part Muriatic Acid (the common kind that's sold in hardware stores, about $5.00 gal.) This is a quick guide as to how I etch my damascus steel. #5. This chemical solution needs to be heated to a temperature of between 160-185F (71-85C) in order to properly etch the metal. 3:1, 4:1, or 5:1 distilled water to the FeCl are all commonly used dilutions. Do yourself a favor and get Ferric Chloride/PCB Archer Etchant from Radio Shack/online. Once your Damascus is sanded to the correct grit, thoroughly wash it with alcohol and pat dry with a clean rag. Keep it submerged for 10 to 15 minutes. I should mention that this should be done outside since the vapors are stinky and it produces hydrogen gas. This advanced formula incorporates a custom blend of surfactants, organic minerals and derivatives of a plant based extract for the most effective concrete etching solution available. Then etch it to make the pattern visible. Uses of Muriatic acid 1. Hang your Damascus piece in the warm acid so that it hangs freely and doesnt touch the sides or bottom of the container. Dilute by adding 1 part muriatic acid to 10 parts water, or about 1 cup acid per gallon of water. Before you start, check out the expiry date for your choice of acid to make sure it's too old. It is a common mistake that when you work with Damascus, the risk of extinction - the layers of separation - is just what you should do. 3 years ago Tom, diluting muriatic doesn't make ferric chloride, no. How do I heat-treat my stainless Damascus after purchase? Mix water and acid in 3 or 4:1 ratio. Toss the PCB into the solution and itll take off. Remember to wear safety goggles and gloves at all times. Place your board to be etched in your new solution and watch it go! Vinegar is a pretty weak etch and it helps to use it hot. Mine is stronger :-),

Gerald Boggs www.geraldboggs.com