To create a Damascus knife, it requires that the blacksmith press and weld two different types of steel into layers. The layers are then folded and pressed several times, more than 100 times with end result being a discus steel with peculiar patterns. In fact, this is what makes Damascus knife cut through any piece of material with ease,

Currently, there are many manufacturers who use this technique to combine 2-5 alloys and welding to manufacture a series of layered metal bars. The resultant product is then heated, folded and hammered repeatedly to create a blade which is then used to create steel alloys that are tough and durable. To make a damasteel, the two sheets of steel that are to be folded must have 14% chromium. This way, the manufacturer will be able to create a Damascus steel whose patterns can only be visible when the steel is thoroughly cleaned.

The Damascus steel must contain at least 14 % chromium. When prepared in etched acid and cleaned, the discus steel layers will be revealed. The two types of steel combined react differently with the acid during the oxidation process hence one is able to see the patterns.

Damasteel is a patented process that is used to make Damascus steel. It is registered in Sweden. In fact, the process of creating Damascus steel was developed by the Swedes per Billgren in 1992. The steel is then forged into a Damascus knife.

The process of making a Damasteel starts by having the steel atomized using a gas. The steel is them forced through a nozzle before it is aerosolized. The resultant steel is then forged into a spherical shape while the powder is then collected in a canister, bonded and compacted into a damasteel.

Damasteel comes in a wide range of patterns which includes Dden’s Eye, Dense Twist and rose, These patterns are all patented.

Afterward, the capsule undergoes forging, texturing rolling in a specific way to obtain the desired patterns. This phase of creating patterns uses special techniques. Damasteel comes in wide variety of patterns including ladder, (raindrop), – some completely unique and trademarked by Damasteel.

Damascus steel is not just beautiful to the eye; tilt is famous, strong and durable. If you are looking for high-performance high-quality steel, you need to consider Damascus. It has a distinctive visual pattern that is varied and which you will obviously love.

Application

Damasteel is used in jewelry, watches, writing pens, gun barrels, buckles and a variety of other applications. Many well-known knife makers use Damasteel. They include LionSteel, knives, Rod Olson, and Brian Tighe.

Damasteel blades are used to make top quality stain free blades patterned that are manufactured using top technology. The Swedish made damasteel boasts of whirls and swirls patterns available in a wide range of dimension. The steel is a great raw material to bladesmiths, knife makers, and jewelers.

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The blades can be etched by being submerged in an etchant solution for about 15-20 minutes before it is finally washed in hot water mixed with detergents. One can use baking soda such as ammonia to help neutralize the etching solution.  The most difficult part of the process is actually washing the blades. During the process, a lot of carbon is released from the steel blade. This is why the hands of the person etching it will always turn black. If you are etching in a sink, you will notice that the sink will also become black even though it can easily be washed off by scrubbing.

Oiling the Blade

After etching the Damascus steel knife, it is necessary that you oil it. However, this should only be done after you are satisfied with the results. If the results obtained are not pleasing, you can repeat the entire process by throwing it back into the etchant solution for another round of washing and soaking.

If you have sanded your Damascus steel blade to the point where the beautiful patterns are no longer visible, etching it can make the knife display very beautiful patterns. It can be used to repair and bring the edges and the spine back. After etching all you need to do is to sand your knife so that you bring back the scales. Applying etchant at the edges is important in that it helps to bring the patterns and no one will ever notice that you actually sanded it. Also, you can selectively apply etchant to the edges and any errant marks but still obtain the same results.

When you choose to use the PCB board etching solution, you need to follow certain safety procedures to help protect your skin and eyes.

After etching, the Damascus steel needs to be taken care for if you want it to continue looking unique. The blade comprises of over 200 layers of steel and so taking good care of the knife ensures that it continues shining. Here are the few steps to ensure that it remains shiny.

Sheathing

Ensure that you purchase a leather sheath and use it to store the knife. If the blade has been etched with Ferric Acid, ensure that the sheath does not absorb the solution. To do this, you may clean the knife using a damp cloth and allow it to dry before it is sheathed.

Also, ensure that you clean the blade as soon as you finish using it. The cleaning should be done using a dry cloth, but ensure that the blade is kept away from chemicals which can damage the steel. Lastly, ensure that your steel blade has been sharpened by an expert so that it can retain its beautiful edges for a longer time.

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