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The core difference is this: D2 tool steel is your go-to for cold-work applications demanding superior abrasion resistance and excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment. M2 tool steel, on the other hand, is the champion for high-speed cutting operations where maintaining hardness at elevated temperatures (red hardness) is paramount.  As someone with over 15 years […]

When you’re looking at S7 tool steel and 4140 alloy steel, the most important thing to know right off the bat is that they are designed for fundamentally different jobs. If your application involves high shock or impact, like in many tooling operations, S7 is generally your go-to. If you need a versatile, strong steel

The fundamental difference between S7 and A2 tool steel is that S7 is engineered for excellent toughness and impact resistance, and A2 offers excellent wear resistance. In terms of classification, S7 belongs to impact-resistant steel among cold-work tool steels; A2 belongs to hardenable medium alloy cold-work steels. 1. Core Distinctions: S7 vs. A2 1.1 Toughness

When selecting materials for your tooling, it is important to understand the differences between grades like O1 and O2 tool steel. Both are common in the O-series of oil-hardening tool steels, but their characteristics can affect your manufacturing. The Bottom Line Up Front For factory managers and engineers comparing O1 and O2:  O1 tool steel is a well-documented,

A2 vs. O1 Tool Steel: Making the Right Choice | Aobo Steel Choosing between A2 and O1 tool steel for your operations is a common consideration, and the best answer depends on your specific application requirements. Generally, if minimizing distortion during heat treatment and achieving better toughness are top priorities, A2 is often the preferred

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