Working with iron can be rewarding.
People that work with iron are called blacksmiths. This trade has been around since the beginning of the Iron Age. The 21st century blacksmith works with iron for artistic or commercial purposes. Commercially, decorative iron is used for fences, rails and gates. As an art medium, iron can be molded into almost any shape. A number of tools are essential for working with iron.
Anvil
One of the most important tools used to work with iron is an anvil. An anvil is like a workbench for the iron worker. It needs to be heavy, fire resistant and strong. Anvils come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of work to be created determines the type of anvil needed. Since anvils are solid metal, they tend to last a long time, making used anvils a wise purchase.
Forge
Forges supply the heat source needed to melt the iron and make it pliable. Forges can be gas or coal fueled. The choice between the two tends to be users preference. Forges can be bought completed, or for a cheaper option, iron workers can create their own forges. All forges need to have air intake to keep the fire hot and air exhaust to dispense of the smoke.
Hammer
Blacksmiths use hammers to form and contour the iron. Hammers come in many styles. Power hammers help ease the effort of all the pounding that needs to be done to manipulate iron. Like anvils, hammers come in a wide range of sizes and prices.
Tongs
Iron becomes extremely hot when placed in a forge. Tongs are used to handle the scorching metal. Tongs need to be strong and easy to hold. Tongs made specifically for blacksmiths must be used. Cooking tongs will not withstand the extreme heat.
Vise
A vise holds the iron object in place so the blacksmith can work on it with ease. A blacksmith vise must be strong enough to hold an object that is being repeatedly pounded. It also must be able to withstand very hot metal. Vise stands allow the blacksmith to work on the iron at a comfortable stance. Vises can be modified with accessories such as a punch holder, spacer or fork.
Detailing Tools
Beautiful designs can be made out of iron.
Different tools can be helpful for creating more intricate designs. Chisels are used for etching and cutting in the iron. Punches and cutters cut out holes and designs. Various texturing tools add artistic details such as leaves and grooves.
Tags: with iron, work with, blacksmith work, work with iron