Thread: My first two razors, ready for heat treat

Originally Posted by HollyGates

...My other option if people think 1800 rpm on a 6" wheel is hopeless is to use my vintage 3 phase grinder at home with the sanding wheel on it; I think with a VFD I could turn it down to like 900 rpm without frying the motor.

900 rpm is a lot better than 1800 rpm is a lot better than 3450 rpm. While doing the finish grinding, do not wear gloves. You want to be able to feel the blade warming up. While you are working down through the grits (no matter the wheel or speed) the finer and finer grits will generate a surprising amount of heat. Your idea...cool frequently and often...is the best. With the thin sections of blade edges on razors, it is possible for you to feel the heat begin, and due to the lag in heat transfer through steel, have already overheated the blade at the edge, before you can get it into the water. Figure out a way to keep your water cool and close to the grinding station so it doesn't become tiresome. Don't just dip the blade in the water but feel the blade cool down in the water with some fingers. If you just dip and leave some residual heat in the steel, the blade can warm up quicker and break your heart before you can stop it.

Mike