12-05-2015, 09:03 AM
(12-05-2015, 07:41 AM)Highpower Wrote: That would be nice Rob, but I don't think I would ever have the time to learn how to do a proper job of it. I'm just wanting to do basic hardening, tempering and annealing of small parts. Trying to do it with my oxy/acetylene torch and box of crayons (Tempilstiks) leaves a lot to be desired. I have enough problems just seeing in general - much less seeing and recognizing the temperature of steel by color (colour).
I just ordered a cheap PID temperature controller. As Dave H. (the other one) pointed out, controllers with multiple set points for ramp/soak times and the like are much more expensive. Another issue for me is trying to hold a part at a steady/even temperature with a torch for any length of time is difficult. Not to mention down right costly with the price of acetylene these days!
The gent that I bought the furnace from was using it for annealing brass .22LR cases that he swedged into jackets for making his own .22 centerfire bullets. (WAY too much work IMHO.) But he is moving to a distant State and didn't want to lug it with him I guess. Worked out well for me though.
Hi Willie
LOL I stopped using crayons when those laser temp guns came out much more user friendly , and they come with a lazy american setting
, Adding a multi set point controller is taking your furnace to another level , having that feature is a must for some modern alloys . watching with interest. Rob
PS you probably know this but others may not , stick a few bits of charcoal in the furnace with your part , it uses up the oxygen in the furnace chamber as it burns and so cutting down on the scale/oxide on parts ,its not a perfect solution but it is an improvement. Keep the door shut as much as possible .