The use of differential heat-based treatment is one of the most striking things about traditional Japanese swords. Designed to give the swords unique characteristics, differential heat treatment can also make them stronger and classy. In differential heat treatment, the spin is coated with clay before quenching is the whole blade with water/oil—giving your swords some unique characteristics. This method is designed to allow the spin to cool slowly as compared to the edge. Here are the main reasons why differential heat treatment is practiced by Japanese blacksmiths when designing Nodachi swords.
Removes Voids in Metal
According to experts, differential heat treatment was used to get rid of the voids in the metals. Remember, voids are notorious for lowering the strength of the swords. Removing them makes the swords stronger. And that’s what the differential heat treatment does. With differential heat treatment, the Japanese were able to manufacture high-quality swords that were stringer and void-free.
Removed Impurities
Besides doing away with voids, differential heat treatment can be used to remove excess impurities from metals—making the swords stronger and sharper. Remember, any metal should have a certain level of impurities, minerals, or any other elements. In high quantities, these impurities tend to make the sword weaker—which is a negative aspect of any sword. However, differential heat treatment helps eliminate these impurities—making the swords stronger and quality. Impurities at a certain point can weaken the sword. If it encounters a high level of force, it will make it break. To create better Japanese swords, differential heat treatment was used to eliminate the impurities.
Create Strong Edges, Flexible Spines
The differential heat treatment was used to create swords featuring strong edges as well as flexible spines. Remember, a good sword must have strength and flexibility. And that’s what the differential heat treatment brings to the table. A strong but inflexible sword is likely to break. However, a strong and flexible sword will not break and is likely to serve you for years to come.
Distribute Carbon Evenly
Differential heat treatment helps to evenly distribute carbon around the blade. Remember, the purpose of carbon is to make a blade stringer. Even more, when evenly distributed around the blades, the sword becomes stronger.
Create Several Layers
When it comes to the manufacture of swords, nothing takes center stage quite like layering. A sword with many layers is strong and durable. And that’s what the differential heat treatment brings to the table. It creates numerous layers through decarburizing the blades’ outside—which forces it into the interior. According to experts, a typical samurai sword may contain up to 65,000 layers. These layers are essential in making the swords string, versatile, and flexible. Heat treatment is effective in creating these layers in Samurai swords. Purchase your samurai swords and have a taste of the traditional Japanese culture.
The Bottom-Line
The differential heat treatment gives traditional Japanese swords a myriad of characteristics. The above are common benefits of differential heat treatment in traditional Japanese swords.
