Tool steels are a variety of carbon and alloy steels that are particularly well-suited for making tools due to their hardness, resistance to abrasion, and ability to retain a cutting edge. Here are some common types of tool steels and their applications:
- Cold-Work Tool Steel:
- Types: A2, D2, O1
- Applications: Blanking dies, forming dies, trimming dies, stamping dies, coining dies, drawing dies, extrusion dies, punches, shear and slitter blades, gauges, knurling tools, rolls, mandrels, and machine parts.
- Hot-Work Tool Steel:
- Types: H13, H11, H21
- Applications: Die casting, extrusion dies, hot forging, hot shearing, and plastic molds.
- High-Speed Tool Steel:
- Types: M2, M42
- Applications: Cutting tools like drills, taps, milling cutters, reamers, and saw blades.
- Water-Hardening Tool Steel:
- Types: W1
- Applications: General-purpose tools, cutting tools, and knives.
- Shock-Resisting Tool Steel:
- Types: S7
- Applications: Tools that undergo high impact, such as chisels, punches, and riveting tools.
- Plastic Mold Tool Steel:
- Types: P20
- Applications: Plastic molding dies, die-casting dies, and extrusion dies.
Each type of tool steel is chosen based on its specific properties and the requirements of the application, such as hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures.