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Need to soften SS Type 304

2007

I have Stain less steel pieces used for electrical application where they need to be rivetted, so the need to be soft of about 60 to 80 Rockwell B, they are 3/8" on diameter and 1.5" in length. I own a electric furnace that can reach up to 1800 F.
What temperature I need to heat the pieces in order to be annealed?

Thanks for your help,

Manny Corona
high precision machining - Juarez Chih., Mexico

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The softest you'll be able to achieve is about 75-80 Rockwell B. Heat to 1050 degrees C (1920 degrees F) then water quench. Lower temperature will result in higher hardness, but if you use your limit of 1800 degrees F the difference in final hardness will only be a Rockwell B unit or two.

Bill Reynolds [deceased]
consultant metallurgist - Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
We sadly relate the news that Bill passed away on Jan. 29, 2010.
2007