April 2025

When selecting materials for demanding applications, understanding the mechanical properties is critical. For engineers working with structural components and machinery, tensile strength is a key metric. Let’s take a straightforward look at AISI 4140 steel, a popular choice we supply here at Aobo Steel, and specifically its tensile strength. What is 4140 Steel? First, AISI […]

A common question we encounter is about steel designations, specifically regarding A2 and Type 304 stainless steel. It’s essential to be clear, as different global standards can sometimes lead to confusion. To put it directly: Yes, Type 304 stainless steel is often referred to as “A2” under the ISO 3506 standard. If you see “A2”

Selecting the correct steel grade is critical for the performance and longevity of your tooling. At Aobo Steel, with our extensive experience in tool steel forging, we often guide customers through the differences between popular grades. Two common choices, particularly for mold and die applications, are P20 and H13. While both are workhorses, they have

At Aobo Steel, with our extensive experience in tool steel, we frequently receive questions about the best material for specific applications. A common one involves D2 tool steel and its suitability for demanding applications, often described as “chopping” – think shearing, blanking, or heavy trimming in manufacturing. D2 steel is a popular choice for these

At Aobo Steel, with our decades of experience in tool steel, we often discuss the practical aspects of using different grades. A common issue that arises is the difficulty some users encounter when sharpening D2 tool steel. Let’s look into the technical reasons for this. D2 steel is a high-carbon, high-chromium cold-work tool steel. Its

At Aobo Steel, with our extensive experience in tool steel forging, we understand that proper heat treatment is crucial to achieving optimal performance from D2 tool steel. This guide outlines the key steps for processing D2 in your factory applications. Following these procedures carefully will help you achieve the desired hardness, wear resistance, and toughness.

Heat treatment is not merely an optional step for A2 steel; it is necessary to develop the specific combination of high hardness, wear resistance, and toughness required to effectively use as a tool and die material. Without proper heat treatment, A2 steel would lack the strength and durability to perform reliably in demanding manufacturing environments,

Alright, let’s talk about getting you the right Tool Steel for Cutting Edge Performance in your factory. As you know, selecting the right material is crucial for tool life, cutting speeds, and the quality of your finished parts. When we talk about the cutting edge, there are a few key characteristics we need to consider