Selecting High Performance Tool Steels for Cold-Forming Applications

This paper discusses properties of tool steels relative to their effects on operating performance of industrial tools. Mechanical properties of various tool steels are compared. The characteristics of powder metallurgy (particle metallurgy, or "CPM") tool steels are presented. The method for utilizing properties to upgrade tool performance or fix tool problems is suggested. This paper also presents a cohesive background for evaluating mechanical property requirements for most types of industrial tools and dies. Author: Edward Tarney, Crucible Service Centers, Camillus, NY.