Woodworking tools and blades are similar in nature to metalworking tools. Woodworking tools can benefit significantly from longer life, stress failure reduction and higher wear resistance after cryogenic treatment.
The Nitrofreeze Process uses computer-controlled time & temperature profiles to gradually bring the woodworking tools to cryogenic temperatures of -300°F. The cryogenic treatment is followed by double post tempering for additional material refinement. The entire process is an extension of heat-treating that modifies the micro-structure of the material and enhances the woodworking tools in the following ways:
- Creates a more uniform “grain” or crystalline structure by transforming retained austenite (RA) into martensite.
- Modifies the carbon microstructure through precipitation of eta-carbides that increase resistance to wear.
- Relieves residual stresses.
Woodcutting equipment and blades benefit from cryogenic treatment because:
- Voids and imperfections in the grain structure are eliminated, providing for more consistent sharpening and a better edge.
- The increased resistance to wear means the edge will hold longer and the blade stays sharper.
- Less failures due to cracking that result from the propagation of stress lines.
- Reduced coefficient of friction due to micro-smoothing.
- Easier polishing and grinding with less material removal needed to restore (re-sharpen) the edge.
