Application of Hot-Work Tool Steels
Hot-work tool steels are steel materials that are highly resistant to wear and are used in a variety of applications. These steels have a high hardness and toughness to be able to withstand high tool in-service temperatures. Hot-work tool steels are applied in hot working processes such as forging, hot-stamping, pressure die casting and plastic molding.
Types of Hot-work Tool Steels
There are many types of hot-work tool steels that are used in different applications. These can be divided into two categories: air hardening and oil hardening. Air hardening steels are generally used in applications that require high-temperature applications and require a high level of wear resistance. This includes die casting and forging applications. These steels are usually classified by their carbon and chromium content. Oil hardening steels are more suitable for plastic molding applications, as their lower hardness and lower wear resistance make them suitable for forming softer materials.
Applications of Hot-Work Tool Steels
Hot-work tool steels have various applications in the industry. They are primarily used in the industries of automobile, aerospace, aviation, and defense. Hot-work tool steels are also applied in various cold-working processes such as cutting, trimming, and drilling.
Hot-work tool steels are often used in automotive, aerospace, and defense for forging and stamping applications. These steels provide good wear resistance and abrasion resistance and can be used in hot-forming operations up to 1250°C.
In the aerospace industry, hot-work tool steels are used in turbine blades and other critical engine components. These materials are manufactured according to a specific specification, typically AISI H13, which is vacuum induction remelted (VIR) and offers a high-performance combination of temperature, wear resistance, and fatigue resistance.
In the defense industry, hot-work tool steels are employed in ordnance. This includes hardening steel mold inserts that are used to fabricate parts for pressure casting.
In the food and beverage industry, hot-work tool steels are used in applications such as the production of soft drink cans. These are used to reduce weight, increase stiffness, increase strength, and reduce corrosion. The steel grades used for this application are usually an oil-hardening hot-work tool steel with a high chromium content.
Conclusion
Hot-work tool steels are highly wear-resistant materials used for various hot and cold working applications. These materials have a high hardness and toughness to be able to withstand high tool in-service temperatures and have various applications in automotive, aerospace, defense, and food and beverage industry.
