Abstract: A method for producing wire with a small cross-sectional area and good mechanical properties is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing metallic coil stock of blackplate thickness with a specific microstructure and an essentially uniform cross-section, positioning in engaging relationship a pair of monolithic cutting rolls, feeding the stock into the nip formed by the rolls and then slitting the stock by shear fracture into wire with an aspect ratio of less than about 25. The method is characterized by an extended life of the cutting rolls.

Abstract: An improved method for continuously carburizing low carbon cold rolled coil stock is disclosed. The carburized product is characterized by the absence of proeutectoid ferrite. The method comprises heating low carbon steel stock in the austenitizing range of 950.degree.-1150.degree.C. (1750.degree.-2100.degree.F.) in a continuous heat treating furnace wherein the furnace contains a high carbon availability so that residence time is of a short duration; homogenizing the stock so as to attain uniform macro distribution of carbon across the length, width and thickness of the stock and quenching the stock so that a uniform micro distribution of carbon is attained.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for precision slitting of metallic coil stock into multiple continuous lengths of wire, wherein the resultant wire is characterized by a small cross-sectional area. The apparatus comprises means for guiding coil stock into a pair of revolving monolithic cutter rolls and means for collecting the slit wire. The rolls are positioned in engaging relationship and each roll contains a plurality of lands and grooves so that stock can be slit with an aspect ratio of less than five.