Why Edge Retention Differs Between Steel Grades

There are different kinds of steel, and each type has specific properties. Edge Retention One important property of steel is edge retention. Edge retention is the extent to which a knife or blade holds its sharpness over time. Have you ever asked yourself why on earth some knives just stay sharp forever, and others become dull right after you’ve used them for the first time? We are going to discover why each steel has a unique edge retention in this guide.

What Exactly Are Carbides, and How Can They Help?

Carbides are small fragments contained in steel. These  carbides  are significant because carbides aid a blade in edge retention. The more carbides the steel has, the better the blade can retain its edge. The carbides function as “hard spots” on the blade, which enable it to stay sharp longer.

What Happens to Steel When it is Heat Treated?

Heat treatment is when steel is heated and cooled in a specific manner. This can alter the hardness of the steel. Hardness refers to how resistant a surface is to scratches or dents. Manufacturers can make the steel harder, which can help it remain sharp longer, by altering the heat treatment.

High Carbon vs Stainless Steel: What are the Differences?

High carbon steel and stainless steel are the two most common   steel types  used for making blades. High carbon steel will hold an edge forever. In comparison, stainless steel does a better job of resisting rust. In terms of the ability to take a keen edge, high carbon steel tends to do better than stainless steel, mainly because it has more carbides.

What Is the Effect Of Blade Shape On Sharpness?

Just like it’s name suggest blade geometry is about what shape/design was given to the blade. Thickness, angle and shape of the blade all contribute to how well it stays sharp. Thinner blades tend to cut better and stay sharp longer. Blades with a steeper angle also tend to be more acute and retain their edge better.

Why Composition of Steel is Important?

composition of steel is which are the elements that composed the steel. Steel has different components so one could keep an edge better than the rest. For instance,   steel  with more carbon and other impurities mixed in tends to stay sharper than steel with less of those elements. By knowing what’s in the steel, manufacturers can produce blades that cut and hold their edge over time.

In Conclusion

Blade or knife selection can come down to what you expect in the way of edge holding with the knife. And if you know about carbides, heat treatment, what separates high carbon steel from stainless, the shape of the blade, and what the steel actually consists of, you can make a smart decision about what kind of steel you need. We at Huaxin are committed to offering superior steel products that stay sharp for our customers.

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