Steel wool canister weld?? anyone tryied?

S

stezann

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Apr 13, 2011
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Do you think is it possible to forge weld steel wool inside a canister to obtain something like wrought iron to be used in fittings (guards, bolsters etc..)?
 
Well, I suppose it could be done, but would be both difficult and expensive for the simple product you would get. It would be like turning down 2X4s on the lathe to make toothpicks.

First, steel wool isn't wrought iron. I really doubt it would work, but even if it did the product would just be a bar of unknown steel similar to 1018. That is basically a bar of cheap welding steel.
Second, it would have to be compressed into the canister, probably along with powdered metal.
Third, it would be a lot more sensible just to use wrought iron or plain steel bars. A pound of steel wool is far more expensive than a pound of steel bar or even wrought iron. If you have the equipment to do a canister weld of this sort, you could just draw out some old WI anchor chain or other material.


EDIT and Addition:
It just occurred to me that what you may intend to do is get a watered effect "like wrought iron". If that is what you wanted, put the wool in the canister, add medium carbon powder, like 1084,vibrate it well and compact. This should weld up as a solid block with the lower carbon wires showing up darker squiggles. An alternative would be to use a bright color powder, like 4600E ( 2% nickel and iron)
 
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Steel wool is typically covered in some type of oil... Clean in acetone or 90% alcohol first. Dry VERY well
 
thanks for the replies, Stacy you'r right...i find it very difficult to scavenge some real deal wrought here, but i'm still searching :)
All the chains i see are displayied like a post modern sculture together with the relative anchor in the touristic harbours...maybe with an hacksaw by night i could... ;)

Have a nice day

Stefano
 
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