[TheForge] forge weld stainless?

[dan tull]

I seem to remember something about SS forgewelding on the first attempt 
only. Subsequent attempts failing.


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Todd Rich" <torin at panix.com>
To: "Bob Ehrenberger" <eforge at centurytel.net>; "Blacksmithing List Sponsored 
by ABANA" <theforge at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Friday, December 21, 2012 9:50 AM
Subject: Re: [TheForge] forge weld stainless?


>
>
> On Fri, 21 Dec 2012, Bob Ehrenberger wrote:
>
>> One of the members of BAM wanted to know about forge welding stainless
>> steel.  So have any of you done it and what flux do you use?
>>
>> Robert Ehrenberger
>> Shelbyville, Mo.
>> eforge at centurytel.net
>>
> The flux I hear used most often when forge welding stainless is fluorspar. 
> Which is also called Fluorite, and is CaF2.  You can get it from ceramic 
> supply stores and other places.  However, it is a fluorine compound, which 
> means you want to do it in a well ventilated area, and probably with a 
> filter mask of the appropriate grade.  Several smiths I know won't use it 
> at all.
>
> I've also hear sal ammoniac being used, which is Ammonium Chloride.  It is 
> also somewhat hazardous to use, and requires good ventilation.  I use it 
> as a 10% kicker with my borax flux when I'm forge welding and having 
> problems.
>
> I think the fluorspar is also added to borax rather than used straight.
>
> Hope that helps.
>
>  Todd
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