Home >> Collecting >> Other Collecting

Water Jet Cutter Vs. Japanese Sword

Makers of high-quality Japanese swords pride themselves on the strength and durability of their blades, but even strong blades have weaknesses. Any steel proves weak against the application of abrasive steel cutting tools, like water jet cutters.

Japanese Sword Making
- Traditional Japanese sword making requires the use of tamahagane, a type of pure carbon steel made through the deoxidation of iron laden sands. The temperature remains relatively low during smelting, increasing the purity of the steel. This steel typically forms the outer layer of the blade, while the inner layer remains a softer iron.
Water Jet Cutter Functions
- Most water jet cutters work by using a type of micro erosion. A large volume of water is forced out of a small nozzle at a constant, rapid pace. The accelerated water particles hit a small area of material, causing the material to crack after a short time. The cracks become larger until the water cuts through the material completely.
Likely Results
- When applied correctly, a water jet cutter should be capable of cutting through the blade of a Japanese sword. The manufacturing of steel for tools typically relies on abrasive water jet cutting, and the properties of tamahagane steel closely match tool steel.

Other Collecting