How to Freeze & Shatter Steel

How to Freeze & Shatter Steel
Published: Jul 17, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Compressed air
  • Sturdy work gloves
  • Goggles
  • Hammer
  1. Attach the straw supplied with the compressed air can to the nozzle. Push one tip of the straw over the small hole of the nozzle until it is secure. If you are freezing a large area, do not use the straw.

  2. Put on sturdy work gloves to protect your fingers from freezing and wear goggles to protect the eyes.

  3. Shake the can a few times then turn it upside down. Hold the tip of the straw or opening of the nozzle one inch away from the area you are freezing. If you are attempting to freeze and shatter a steel lock, insert the straw in the key hole opening.

  4. Depress the nozzle on the compressed air can. Depending on grade and thickness, you will need to keep a constant flow of compressed air on the steel for between 30 and 60 seconds. The steel is frozen and ready to be shattered when a thick, white frost forms. Set the can aside.

  5. Strike the steel with firm force using a hammer to shatter it.

Tips

Compressed air is most often used to clean dust particles out of hard to reach places. It can be purchased in the office supply section of most major retailers.

Warnings

Make sure there is proper ventilation in the area you are working.

Wear protective clothing and goggles to avoid contact with skin and eyes.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images

Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images

Katrina Arthurs

Katrina Arthurs began her writing career in 1999. She served as a columnist for the "Edgewood News Herald" then as a reporter and production manager for the "KC Conservative." Arthurs is pursuing her Bachelor of Science in criminal justice…

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