Evan

If you’re using D2 tool steel in your factory, you might be wondering if hardening is a necessary step. Let’s get directly to the answer. The Short Answer: Yes, D2 Steel Needs Hardening D2 steel must be hardened for nearly all tooling applications in a factory setting. It’s designed to be used in its hardened […]

So, the big question: is P20 steel weldable? Yes, it absolutely is. P20 steel is commonly welded, particularly for repairing and modifying molds and dies. However, it’s not as straightforward as welding basic carbon steel. P20 is a specialized alloy tool steel, and to weld it successfully without issues, you need to follow specific procedures

Understanding O1 tool steel‘s hardness is critical for performance and tool life in factory applications. At Aobo Steel, this is a common question we address. To be direct, properly heat-treated O1 tool steel typically shows a Rockwell C hardness (HRC) from the low 50s to the mid-60s. In its as-quenched state—immediately after hardening and before

What’s the main difference between H13 and A2 tool steel? The bottom line is this: H13 is your go-to for hot work applications where tools operate at high temperatures. A2, on the other hand, is designed for cold work applications, excelling in tasks where dimensional stability and good wear resistance at ambient temperatures are key.

When you’re selecting tool steel for your projects, particularly for applications like plastic injection molds or die casting dies, a common question that comes up is about the condition of P20 steel upon delivery. So, let’s get straight to it: Yes, P20 tool steel is typically supplied in a pre-hardened condition. Understanding P20’s “Pre-Hardened” State

Yes, D2 steel can be forged. However, due to its specific composition, particularly its high carbon and high chromium content, forging D2 tool steel requires careful attention to process parameters. As someone with over 15 years in the tool steel business, I can tell you that successfully forging D2 is entirely achievable when done correctly.

Is D2 tool steel good for blades? Yes, D2 tool steel makes a great blade, if you need extreme wear resistance above all else. Think high-volume industrial cutting, shearing, and trimming. But if your blade takes a beating or needs to resist chipping, D2 might not be your best bet due to its lower toughness.

What are the D2 tool steel disadvantages? While D2 tool steel is highly regarded for its excellent wear resistance in cold-work applications, it presents challenges including difficult machining and grinding, moderate toughness, potential dimensional instability due to retained austenite after heat treatment, susceptibility to quench cracking, and significant difficulty in welding. Understanding these limitations is

The Short Answer: Yes, O1 tool steel is a very capable material for many types of knives. It excels in providing high hardness, excellent edge retention, and good toughness, making it a reliable workhorse. It’s also relatively easy to work with and cost-effective. The main consideration is its lower corrosion resistance compared to stainless steels;

Are P20 and 4140 steel grades similar? The answer is no. While both are alloy steels, they differ significantly in composition, properties, and applications. P20 is primarily used for mold making in the plastics industry, whereas 4140 is a versatile steel employed in various structural and mechanical applications. This article explores the characteristics of each