Get to Know M42 High-Speed Steel from Toolman
Understanding M42 High-Speed Steel
In today's demanding manufacturing landscape, the need for materials that combine durability, precision, and performance is paramount. Toolman Special Steels, a trusted name in the steel industry, proudly offers M42 High-Speed Steel (HSS)—a material engineered to meet the rigorous requirements of modern tooling applications.
M42 HSS is a molybdenum-series high-speed steel alloy enriched with approximately 8% cobalt. This composition imparts superior red hardness, allowing tools to maintain cutting efficiency at elevated temperatures. Such characteristics make M42 an ideal choice for applications involving high-speed cutting and machining of hard materials.
Key Properties of M42 HSS
- High Red Hardness: Maintains hardness and cutting efficiency at elevated temperatures.
- Excellent Wear Resistance: Ensures prolonged tool life even 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
| Element | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.10 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 3.90 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 9.20 |
| Tungsten (W) | 1.40 |
| Cobalt (Co) | 7.80 |
| Vanadium (V) | 1.20 |
Mechanical & Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Annealed) | ≤ 269 HBW |
| Hardness (Quenched & Tempered) | ≥ 66 HRC |
| Density | 8.3 g/cm³ |
| Modulus of Elasticity | 225 kN/mm² at 20°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 19 W/m•K at 20°C |
Heat Treatment Guidelines
- Hardening: Preheat to 816–871°C, then heat to 1177–1204°C. Quench in a salt bath at 538–621°C or in warm oil.
- Tempering: Perform triple tempering cycles between 510–593°C, with each cycle lasting a minimum of two hours.
- Note: Tempering below 538°C is not recommended.
Applications of M42 HSS
M42's unique properties make it suitable for manufacturing:
- Drills and Taps
- End Mills and Milling Cutters
- Hobs and Broaches
- Form and Gear Cutters
- Trimming Dies and Chasers
These tools are essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery, where precision and durability are critical.
Toolman Special Steels: Your Trusted M42 HSS Supplier
As a leading M42 high-speed steel supplier, Toolman Special Steels is committed to delivering materials that meet international standards. Our M42 HSS is available in various forms, including round bars, flat bars, and custom dimensions, catering to diverse industrial needs.
For more detailed information on our M42 HSS offerings, please visit our M42 Steel Grade Page.
Partner with Toolman Special Steels for high-quality M42 High-Speed Steel solutions tailored to your specific requirements.
Ready to upgrade? Contact our team today for expert guidance and support.
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