High-Speed Steel: Precision and Performance by Toolman

In the realm of advanced manufacturing, the demand for materials that offer exceptional durability, precision, and performance is ever-increasing. Toolman Special Steels, a distinguished name in the steel industry, proudly presents its range of High-Speed Steels (HSS)—engineered to meet the rigorous requirements of modern tooling applications.
Understanding High-Speed Steel
High-Speed Steel is a subset of Tool Steels, renowned for its ability to retain hardness at elevated temperatures, a property known as "red hardness." This characteristic makes HSS ideal for cutting tools that operate at high speeds and temperatures
Key Properties of High-Speed Steel
- Red Hardness: Maintains cutting efficiency at temperatures up to 593°C (1100°F).
- High Wear Resistance: Ensures prolonged tool life under abrasive conditions.
- Superior Toughness: Reduces the risk of chipping and breakage during heavy-duty operations.
- Good Grindability: Facilitates precision finishing and sharpening of tools.

Chemical Composition
High-Speed Steels are alloyed with elements such as tungsten, molybdenum, chromium, vanadium, and cobalt. These elements contribute to the steel's hardness, wear resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures.
High-Speed Steel Grades by Toolman Special Steels
M2 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3343)
- Overview: A general-purpose molybdenum-based HSS known for its balanced toughness and wear resistance.
- Applications: Ideal for drills, taps, end mills, and broaches.
M3 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3344)
- Overview: Offers enhanced wear resistance over M2 due to higher vanadium content.
- Applications: Suitable for complex cutting tools, reamers, and form tools.
M7 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3348)
- Overview: Provides superior toughness, making it excellent for shock-resistant tools.
- Applications: Used in heavy-duty drills, punches, and chisels.
M35 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3243)
- Overview: A cobalt-alloyed grade offering improved red hardness and wear resistance.
- Applications: High-performance drills, taps, and saw blades.
M42 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3247)
- Overview: Premium-grade cobalt HSS with outstanding hot hardness and wear resistance.
- Applications: Aerospace cutting tools and machining tough alloys.
ABC III High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3333)
- Overview: A proprietary grade designed for high hardness and long tool life.
- Applications: High-load punches, broaches, and form cutters.
T1 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3355)
- Overview: Tungsten-based HSS with excellent wear resistance and hot hardness.
- Applications: Turning tools, form tools, and machine taps.
T4 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3255)
- Overview: High-tungsten HSS with enhanced toughness and strength.
- Applications: Cold work dies, lathe tools, and industrial cutters.
T15 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3202)
- Overview: Premium-grade tungsten HSS with added cobalt for exceptional edge retention and red hardness.
- Applications: Aerospace and medical machining, high-strength steels.
T42 High-Speed Steel (DIN 1.3207)
- Overview: Cobalt-rich grade designed for ultra-high performance with wear resistance and toughness.
- Applications: Advanced machining operations and die and mould industry.
Comparative Table of Toolman HSS Grades
Grade | DIN | Type | Key Features | Typical Applications |
---|---|---|---|---|
M2 | 1.3343 | Molybdenum-based | Balanced toughness and wear resistance | Drills, taps, end mills |
M3 | 1.3344 | Molybdenum-based | Enhanced wear resistance | Complex cutting tools |
M7 | 1.3348 | Molybdenum-based | Superior toughness | Heavy-duty drills, punches |
M35 | 1.3243 | Cobalt-alloyed | Improved red hardness | High-performance drills |
M42 | 1.3247 | Cobalt-alloyed | Outstanding hot hardness | Aerospace cutting tools |
ABC III | 1.3333 | Proprietary | High hardness and tool life | High-load punches |
T1 | 1.3355 | Tungsten-based | Excellent wear resistance | Turning tools |
T4 | 1.3255 | Tungsten-based | Enhanced toughness and strength | Cold work dies |
T15 | 1.3202 | Tungsten-based | Exceptional edge retention | Aerospace machining |
T42 | 1.3207 | Tungsten-based | Ultra-high performance | Advanced machining |

Applications of High-Speed Steel
Due to its exceptional properties, HSS is widely used in manufacturing:
- Drill bits
- End mills
- Threading taps and dies
- Reamers
- Saw blades
- Lathe tools
- Gear cutters
- Broaches
- Punches
These tools are essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery, where precision and durability are critical.
Toolman Special Steels: Your Trusted HSS Partner
As a leading high-speed steel manufacturer, supplier, and exporter, Toolman Special Steels is committed to delivering materials that meet international standards. With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and a team of experienced professionals, Toolman ensures the production of high-quality HSS products tailored to your specific requirements.
For more information on our High-Speed Steel offerings, please visit our products page.
Ready to upgrade? Contact our team today for expert guidance and support.
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