Oroshigane

Oroshigane is a traditional Japanese method of creating high-carbon steel for the production of Japanese swords and kitchen knives. The process involves the smelting of iron sand and charcoal in a tatara, a traditional Japanese furnace.

History

The use of oroshigane dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when it was first used in the production of samurai swords. The technique was later adopted by blacksmiths for the creation of kitchen knives and other cutting tools.

Process

The process of creating oroshigane involves several steps. First, iron sand and charcoal are placed in a tatara. The mixture is then heated to a high temperature, causing the iron to melt and absorb carbon from the charcoal. The resulting material, known as tamahagane, is then hammered and folded repeatedly to remove impurities and create a uniform distribution of carbon. This process is known as folding.

The final product, oroshigane, is a high-carbon steel that is both hard and flexible. It is highly prized for its ability to hold a sharp edge, making it ideal for the production of cutting tools.

Uses

Oroshigane is primarily used in the production of Japanese swords and kitchen knives. However, it is also used in the creation of other cutting tools, such as chisels and planes.

See Also

• Japanese swordsmithing
• Tamahagane
• Tatara (furnace)

References

• Japanese Swordsmithing: From Tamahagane to Sword
• The Craft of the Japanese Sword
• The Art of Japanese Sword Polishing

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