How do you cut hardened steel padlocks?

How do you cut hardened steel padlocks?

Bolt cutters are the common tool of choice for to cut padlocks during forcible-entry. Unfortunately, most padlocks are made of case-hardened steel, which is very strong in comparison to the materials that bolt cutters were intended to cut.

Can hardened steel be cut?

If a clean cut is desired when cutting through hardened steel, or if the steel’s hardness must be retained, a fine toothed hacksaw will work wonderfully, though the process is long and will require a great deal of intense effort. Use a bench vise to firmly hold the hardened steel as it is cut.

Can bolt cutters cut case hardened steel?

Large bolt cutters, which can be as long as 48 inches, can handle hardened steel rods, heavy chains, and thick threaded cable up to 7/16 of an inch in diameter.

How do you cut a steel lock?

In this article, we’ll go over some of the easiest ways to cut through a padlock without bolt cutters.

  1. Use an Angle Grinder. Image Credit: Pawel Michalowski, Shutterstock.
  2. Use a Dremel.
  3. Use a Propane Torch and Hacksaw.
  4. Use a Cutting Torch.
  5. Use a Hammer.
  6. Use a Shim.
  7. Lock Picking.
  8. Use a Master Key.

Can an angle grinder cut hardened steel?

Hardened steel is a very useful material, but working with it is tough because it is nearly impossible to cut with simple tools. What you really need is an angle grinder, and this video will show you how to use one of the powerful power tools to cut a hardened steel ring.

Will Sawzall cut through hardened steel?

Carbide tipped blades cut harder, denser metals like hardened steel, cast iron, alloys including boron steel, and higher grades of stainless steel. These blades are extremely hard, heat-resistant, and impact-resistant.

How do you soften hardened steel for machining?

How to Soften Steel

  1. Place the steel in a heat treat oven or forge and slowly raise the temperature of the steel to its particular austenite region.
  2. Hold the steel at the austenite temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Lower the temperature of the steel slowly.
  4. Cool the steel to room temperature and machine as needed.

How do you cut a heavy duty padlock?

To cut a lock, all you need is a pair of bolt cutters. Hold the lock at an angle as you cut through it, which will make the cutting process easier. You can also cut through a lock with an angle grinder. Make sure to put on gloves and a face shield first, since grinders can produce sparks.

What is the best Sawzall blade for hardened steel?

Top Pick – Diablo DS0908CF 9″ Recip Blade for Thick Metal Cutting

  • Runner Up – Freud-Diablo DB Carbide Reciprocating saw blade 4″ (DS0408CF3)
  • Diamond Grit Blade- LENOX Tools Reciprocating Saw Blade (10833800RDG)
  • Premium Choice – MILWAUKEE ELEC TOOL Sawzall Reciprocating Saw Blade
  • Good Value – MK Morse Reciprocating Blade
  • How to braze hardened steel?

    – Read our General Safety Precautions before starting your project. – Read the instructions that come with your torch and braze before beginning your project. – Always remove torch from fuel cylinder and store fuel in an upright position after completing your project.

    What is hardened steel used for?

    Hardened steel is used to make metal objects that are subject to high levels of force or abuse. For example, most automotive parts are made from this material, particularly those used for trucking. Hand tools and drill bits often consist of this type of steel, as do many knives.

    What is the tempering and hardening of hardened steel?

    Faint-yellow – 176 °C (349 °F) – gravers,razors,scrapers

  • Light-straw – 205 °C (401 °F) – rock drills,reamers,metal-cutting saws
  • Dark-straw – 226 °C (439 °F) – scribers,planer blades
  • Brown – 260 °C (500 °F) – taps,dies,drill bits,hammers,cold chisels
  • Purple – 282 °C (540 °F) – surgical tools,punches,stone carving tools