Tool steel
Tool steel is a type of steel specially manufactured to be used in cutting and measuring tools. This steel has various characteristics and properties that make it ideal for these uses, such as:
- Wear resistance: Tool steel is wear resistant, which means it does not wear down easily, allowing for longer tool life.
- Hardness: Tool steel is very hard, allowing it to hold a sharp edge for an extended period of time.
- Toughness: Tool steel is tough, which means it does not break easily, allowing for greater safety in use.
- Corrosion Resistance: Tool steel is corrosion resistant, which means it does not rust easily, allowing for greater durability and less maintenance.
Types of Tool Steel
There are several different types of tool steel, each with specific characteristics and particular purposes, such as:
- Carbon Steel: Carbon steel is the most common type of tool steel. It is very hard and resistant to wear, but it is not as resistant to corrosion.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a type of steel that is resistant to corrosion, but it is not as hard and wear resistant as carbon steel.
- Cobalt Steel: Cobalt steel is a very hard and wear-resistant type of steel, but it is more expensive than other types of tool steel.
Tool steel manufacturing
In terms of its manufacture, tool steel is manufactured through a process known as steeling. This process involves heating the steel to high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it to harden it. Chemical elements such as cobalt or molybdenum are often added to improve the properties of the steel.
After fabrication, tool steel is tempered, which is the process of heating and cooling the steel to improve its hardness and strength. It is then sharpened and given a final shape for use.
