Grade of steel and hardness of heavy duty Armstron c-clamps?

richard newman · Mar 1, 2021

I want to modify the frame of a heavy service Armstrong c-clamp. Description says they are drop forged from carbon steel. Anyone know what grade and how hard it is? I can file it, but it feels like it's been hardened a bit.

https://www.amazon.com/Armstrong-78-030-Pattern-C-Clamp-Capacity/dp/B00004WC4F

Thinking to mill it on the b'port if I can, then off hand grind to final contours.

pavt · Mar 1, 2021

Nice clamps, I've used them before. I would guess something like 1040 or C45. Or whatever they make grade 8 bolts and socket head set screws out of.A former employer had dozens of those clamps, up to 12" with solid bronze spindles (heavy fabrication shop).

Milland · Mar 1, 2021

I'll guess the hardness is in the 30's to 40's RHC range. Regardless, you'll have no problem milling it with any decent four flute carbide endmill.

boslab · Mar 1, 2021

Cev comes to mind, a good grade for forging does not automatically mean good for welding, I’d guess ( don’t have the equipment to verify since retiring)med carbon mid manganese so I guess they are weldable but I could be completely wrong (as today has proved again)
Mark

richard newman · Mar 2, 2021

Thanks all. I had thought it likely to be 1040. Sounds like it will be no more difficult than cutting 4140 PH.

Frederick Harvie · Mar 2, 2021

If you are on good terms with your local scrap metal yard stop by and ask them to take a reading with a XRF gun. Then you will know exactly what you are dealing with

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Grade of steel and hardness of heavy duty Armstron c-clamps?

richard newman

Titanium

pavt

Stainless

Milland

Diamond

boslab

Titanium

richard newman

Titanium

Frederick Harvie

Stainless

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