We’ve just increased our stock range to two new thicknesses of the formidable Z-FiNit. Z-FiNit is a PESR (Pressurized Electro Slag Re-melt) steel from Zapps GMBH. This produces an extremely clean steel with very low impurities and very fine grain structure – great for knives! However, this steel has a little bit of history behind it, involving NASA! In development in the 1970’s NASA were seeking a corrosion resistant alloy that can be used to replace 52100 in the bearings on the shuttle program – after much development they arrived at Z-FiNit, the Nitrogen based alloy that we have here!
What is the Chemical Composition?
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C:
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Cr:
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Mo:
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Mn:
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N:
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Ni:
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0.3%
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15.00%
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0.95%
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1%
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0.5%
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0.5%
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How do I heat treat it?
Heat to 1030C (Hold for 20 minutes)
Air or Oil Quench (Suggested Oil is Rye 32)
Optional Sub-Zero (Cryo or Dry Ice) Treatment
Temper twice for two hours at 180C for 60/61HRc
What is it good for?
Any blade that needs excellent corrosion resistance, toughness and edge stability – in effect any cutting really, particularly those blades that come into contact with salt water for example, or harsh environments like the kitchen!
What is it like to work with?
It polishes beautifully to mirror finishes, has a not too involved heat treatment (A kiln is required though, or we can put you in touch with professional heat treaters), for me I prefer Z-FiNit to RWL-34, CPM-154 for everyday use.
Where can I buy it?
You can view our size range and pricing here!