Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Need to soften SS Type 304

2007

I have Stain less steel pieces used for electrical application where they need to be rivetted, so the need to be soft of about 60 to 80 Rockwell B, they are 3/8" on diameter and 1.5" in length. I own a electric furnace that can reach up to 1800 F.
What temperature I need to heat the pieces in order to be annealed?

Thanks for your help,

Manny Corona
high precision machining - Juarez Chih., Mexico

The softest you'll be able to achieve is about 75-80 Rockwell B. Heat to 1050 degrees C (1920 degrees F) then water quench. Lower temperature will result in higher hardness, but if you use your limit of 1800 degrees F the difference in final hardness will only be a Rockwell B unit or two.

Bill Reynolds [deceased]
consultant metallurgist - Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
We sadly relate the news that Bill passed away on Jan. 29, 2010.
2007

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: