Thread: Electrolysis - a different set of perspectives

Originally Posted by pmcgee

http://forum.woodenboat.com/showthre...-(with-photos)

including a story of a handsaw bent (I assume they mean curved) to fit into a container, subjected to electrolysis ... and SNAP ...
presuming hydrogen embrittlement.

Paul

A good link. Post #33 gives a very thorough technical breakdown of the process and in some regards de-bunks the myths. As far as high carbon steel is concerned, from which saw plates are made, there is the possibility of hydrogen entraining itself within the metal leading to failure. This is the hydrogen embrittlement to which he refers.

Hans doesn't mention the remedy, which is immediate (within four hours) mild heating which is alleged to be sufficient to drive off the hydrogen atoms from the steel. It was interesting to note the way in which the saw was broken. Having said that I remember my carpenter uncle demonstrating to me how a good saw could be bent back on itself touching the toe to the tote. I think the saw was a Disston, although as a small boy at the time it meant nothing to me.

Regards
Paul

BobL has said ... low pressure, low temp, low concentration => minimal likely problems ...

but I guess stress or existing fractures must wave a red flag.

There are many of the old ads that show a saw being bent right round ... but I think there is also the opinion out there (now) that 100yrs along ... don't torture them.
(I even video'd or photographed that, "way back")

Paul