High speed steels, commonly abbreviated as HSS, are a class of alloys renowned for their ability to maintain cutting edge sharpness at high temperatures. Their exceptional heat resistance and hardness make them indispensable in various industrial applications where precision and durability are paramount. In this article, we will delve into what are high speed steels used for.
What Are High Speed Steels Used For?
Composition and Properties of High Speed Steels
High speed steels are typically composed of tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), vanadium (V), and carbon (C) in varying concentrations. The carbon content ranges from 0.6% to 2.3%, much higher than in conventional steels, which contributes significantly to their hardness. Tungsten and molybdenum are carbide-forming elements that increase the hardness and hot hardness of the steel. Cobalt, on the other hand, improves the red hardness and wear resistance, while chromium enhances the corrosion resistance. Vanadium is used to increase the hardenability and toughness of the alloy.
The key properties that make high speed steels unique are:
- High Hardness: The carbon and carbide-forming elements give HSS its exceptional hardness, enabling it to maintain a sharp cutting edge for extended periods.
- Good Red Hardness: Red hardness refers to the ability of a material to retain its hardness at elevated temperatures. High speed steels can maintain their hardness up to temperatures of 600°C (1112°F), allowing them to perform well in hot cutting operations.
- Wear Resistance: The high carbon content and carbide-forming elements provide good wear resistance, extending the tool life in demanding applications.
- Toughness: Despite their hardness, high speed steels also exhibit good toughness, reducing the risk of chipping or cracking during use.
Applications of High Speed Steels:
The unique properties of high speed steels make them suitable for a wide range of applications, particularly in the metalworking and toolmaking industries. Some of the key applications are:
- Cutting Tools: High speed steels are extensively used in the manufacture of cutting tools such as drills, taps, reamers, milling cutters, and lathe tools. Their ability to maintain a sharp cutting edge at high temperatures makes them ideal for machining hard and tough materials.
- Forming Tools: In metal forming operations like stamping, forging, and extrusion, high speed steels are used to manufacture punches, dies, and other tooling components. Their wear resistance and toughness enable them to withstand the high pressures and temperatures encountered during these processes.
- Knives and Blades: High speed steels are also used to manufacture knives and blades for various applications, including surgical instruments, scissors, and industrial cutting knives. Their hardness and corrosion resistance make them suitable for these demanding applications.
- Dies and Punches for Metalworking: In metal stamping and punching operations, high speed steels are preferred for their ability to withstand repeated impacts and maintain dimensional stability. Dies and punches made from HSS are able to produce high-quality parts with precise dimensions.
- Hobbyist and DIY Tools: While industrial applications dominate the use of high speed steels, they are also finding their way into the hands of hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. High-end woodworking tools, such as router bits and saw blades, often utilize HSS for improved performance and durability.
Conclusion
In summary, high speed steels are a class of alloys that exhibit exceptional hardness, red hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. These properties make them invaluable in a wide range of applications, particularly in the metalworking and toolmaking industries. From cutting tools and forming dies to knives and blades, high speed steels continue to play a crucial role in maintaining the precision and efficiency of modern manufacturing processes.
Thank you for reading our article and we hope it can help you to have a better understanding of what are high speed steels used for. If you are looking for high speed steel suppliers and manufacturers online now, we would advise you to visit Sino Special Metal for more information.
As a leading supplier of high speed steels from Shanghai China, Sino Special Metal offers high-quality high-speed steel products at a very competitive price.
