How are shovel heads heat treated?
How are shovel heads heat treated? |
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As a result of the continual heating and reheating during its construction, the steel head will be extremely weak.
The steel needs to undergo heat treatment to improve its strength. First, the head is heated to 1,100 degrees celsius for 90 seconds. |
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Next, the head is immersed in cool water for around 30 seconds.
This heating and rapid cooling process is known as quenching and hardens the metal. |
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Finally, a coat of paint is sprayed on the head and baked for 5 minutes to reinforce the finish. | |||
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The result is a solid socket, square mouth green blade.
The next step in the process is the making of the shaft. For more information, see How are the shaft and handle fitted to a shovel? |
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