I have a carbon steel file that I want to bend in a letter C shape. So, what is the malliable temperature? If it's low, could it be done in a camp fire?
It's now not rather that rough. You can use your charcoal grill to do it. First construct a colossal fireplace in it after which bury the metal within the coals. It'll simplest take approximately ten minuites or so for the metal to warmth by way of. Then decide on it out of the coals with tongs and drop it right into a bucket of water. Repeat as preferred. Eventually it is going to get as brittle as glass. To repair this, you have got to anneal the steel. Again warmth the steel within the coals, simplest this time allow it keep there till the coals cross the entire manner out all by way of themselves. Next day while the entire manner cool, Take it out and blank it off. Viola!, you may have hardened metal.
It needs to be RED hot, the hotter the better. Yes you can use a camp fire if you put the file directly in the hottest part of the coals, but it'll take about 5-10 minutes to heat. Charcoal briquettes would probably work better as a heat source. You can use something like a blow dryer to intensify the coals, that might help. You'll also need a bench vice, and the biggest pair of pliers you can find, for leverage. Bending steel's not easy even when it's hot. You could also use a bit of steel pipe that'll fit over the end of the file. Stick the file in the vise when red-hot, slip the pipe over the free end, and use the pipe to bend it. OR, you could use the old-fashioned method of just holding it with pliers in one hand, and hitting it with a 5lb sledge hammer with the other. use something solid as an anvil, like a large steel pipe. you mighe be able to get away with using a small log, but you'll have to work twice as hard. Safety glasses are MANDITORY for this type of thing. Do not attempt without eye protection at all times. Ear plugs are also a very good idea.
