Just like seasonings alter the taste of food, the characteristics of steel can be altered by the addition of different chemical elements and compounds. This "recipe" allows for the production of different steel alloys. The effects that an element produces can vary significantly depending on which other elements are included.
When researching what shears to purchase, some of the wording may be confusing and misleading. The materials or elements used and what their characteristics are can be overwhelming.
Although the science of metallurgy is complex, I hope that this helps. Here is a short list of some of the elements used and their characteristics.
Carbon (C)
Increases edge retention, tensile strength, and the hardness which is attainable.
Chromium (Cr)
Increases hardness, tensile strength, and toughness. Improves resistance to corrosion. Can also improve wear resistance in complex steel alloys.
Cobalt (Co)
Increases strength and hardness. Corrosion resistant. Intensifies the individual effects of other elements in more complex steels.
Molybdenum (Mo)
Increases strength, hardness, hardenability, and toughness. Improves machinability and resistance to corrosion.
Vanadium (Va)
Increases strength, wear resistance, and toughness. Smaller grain size.
Check back soon to learn popular alloys used in the manufacturing of high quality beauty shears.
Thanks for visiting
Inochi Team