Sharp edge cutting technology - a review of hand held and machine knives/blades and their sharp edge retention

Abstract

The cutlery & Trades Research Association (CATRA) has recently concluded a two year research project, funded by the Department of Trade and Industry Focus Technology Programme, to review the sharp edge retention of hand held and machine knives and blades. Results for sharpness and wear performance of cutting edges, ranging from small thin razor blades to large paper shear blades, are reported and compared with those having undergone a variety of hard, wear resistant surface treatments, i.e. physical vapour deposition, plasma nitriding, case hardening, and electrodeposition processes.