[TheForge] tungsten for punches?

[jerry Frost]

That about sums it up for using tig tungstens as punches. 

There are tungsten carbides for impact as well as abrasion resistance but
trying to grind one into a useful punch would be a bear and need blue wheels
just to start. Some of the matrix alloys aren't happy breathing dust either.

I think you'll be a lot better off using H or S series steels and making
device that keeps force from the blow centered as exactly down the punch's
centerline as possible.

Jer

-----Original Message-----
From: theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ries Niemi
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2014 10:11 AM
To: Blacksmithing List Sponsored by ABANA
Subject: Re: [TheForge] tungsten for punches?

Considering how easy it is to snap a Tig ELECTRODE (not a "rod"- generally
speaking, "rod" would refer to a filler rod of base metal, not a tungsten
electrode), I think it wouldnt work.
Tungsten is hard, but brittle. It is alloyed, or distributed in matrixes, to
make hard cutting edges, but I really doubt it would be very good for an
impact tool.

You might consider trying some of the depleted uranium, though- the Israeli
blacksmiths have been said to have forged some it- and since its tank
penetrating ammo, it is better suited to beating on.

but hey, try it and see- and 1/8" tungsten electrode is only a few bucks,
buy one and see how it works.

ries


On Mar 18, 2014, at 11:03 AM, Bruce . wrote:

> I vaguely remember a discussion on this forum that touched on the use 
> of tungsten punches.  Was there any reality to that notion?
> 
> In particular, would it make any sense to make a tungsten punch in 
> smaller sizes?  TIG rods are available 0.040" up to 5/32" -- just the 
> range where punching is difficult because the punches heat and bend.  
> My thought is to encase most of the rod in a close-fitting steel 
> sheath (tube), if necessary to prevent bending and to give a steel surface
for striking.
> 
> Is this idea way off-base?  Your thoughts?
> 
> Bruce
> NJ
> ______________________________________________________________