Advantages of Using P20 Steel in Molds

Acero P20 is a widely recognized and utilized material for plastic molds because of a combination of its inherent properties and the manufacturing benefits it offers. It is the most important and common group of steels for plastic molds. So, what are the advantages of using P20 steel in mold applications? Let’s break it down.

Here are the key advantages:

1. Prehardened Condition (Ready for Service). P20 steel is usually supplied in a pre-hardened state. Dureza del acero P20 is around 32 HRC (Rockwell C hardness). This is the most distinctive advantage of P20. After machining the mold cavity, the mold can often be put directly into service without the need for subsequent high-temperature heat treatment. It avoids the problems of deformation and dimensional changes caused by heat treatment. For a further understanding of this topic, please read Is P20 a hardened steel?
2. Excelente maquinabilidad: P20 steel has excellent machinability. Since the cost of machining molds accounts for approximately 80% of the total mold cost, good machinability helps reduce overall production costs and time.
3. Superior Polishability. P20 steel’s soundness, chemical and structural uniformity, and low inclusion content are the reasons for its superior polishability, which is essential for producing plastic parts with a smooth, shiny, or mirror-like finish, particularly for transparent plastics.
4. Good Weldability. P20 steel can be successfully welded for repair and renovation, even in a “cold” condition, if proper precautions are taken. This facilitates mold maintenance and repair, prolonging the service life of expensive tooling. For more information about this topic, please read Is P20 steel weldable?
5. Versatility and Suitability for Various Applications. P20 is a versatile mold steel used for all sizes of machine-cut molds. It is widely used in molds for injection and compression molding of plastics. Additionally, it finds application in low-temperature die casting dies for alloys such as tin, zinc, and lead.
6. Ability for Surface Hardening Treatments. Although P20 steel has been pre-hardened, its tener puesto resistance and hardness can be further improved through carburizing and nitriding treatments.
7. Available in Large Sections. P20 steel is available in large forgings, making it suitable for massive plastic molds that can weigh several metric tons and be very thick.
8. Cost-Effectiveness. Compared to higher alloyed grades, P20 steel offers a favorable balance of properties and cost. It’s a relatively inexpensive filler wire that further contributes to cost savings during repairs.

The above is our summary of the advantages of P20 steel in mold applications. We hope this helps you. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about P20 steel.