Facility managers increasingly prefer cold work steel for precision tooling. These steel varieties are characterized by a high carbon amount, complementary to the calculated addition of different alloying elements. Common alloy formulations include tungsten, chromium, manganese, and molybdenum. The lower percentage of alloying also makes the steep production process extremely cost-effective, yet another key factor in popularizing these for factory settings.
The Feasible Factors for Efficient Precision Tooling
A quick reevaluation of why you should automatically choose it for precision tooling reveals a set of key aspects. Firstly, these varieties display competent levels of wear resistance, which is an automatic priority for the processes. These are made to last longer in abrasive environments, functioning critically over time to deliver spectacular results on the go. It's not a surprise that steel is used frequently for gauges, fixtures, blanking, and forming dies. The superb wear resistance is primarily attributed to a c-content percentage of 1.45% - 2.30%.
In addition, the steel type displays extreme accuracy in precision-tooling. The superior hardness and the ability to perform in difficult conditions make it the perfect component in industries that almost exclusively depend on precision tooling to continue. The higher precision levels are also coherent with tighter tolerances, making it an automatic choice for industry applications. It is especially considered suitable for applications where the surface temperature of the tool does not exceed over 260 degrees centigrade. You need to consult with an efficient tool steel supplier to discuss the availability of the cold work variants so that you can decide accordingly.
Most importantly, these steel types are preferred for their extreme hardness. The hardness is achieved by a calculated addition of different alloying elements during the production process. The addition of molybdenum, tungsten, chromium, and manganese makes sure that the steel can be oil-quenched with minimal distortion. You can get a better and more actionable insight into the production process by discussing the parameters with a good steel supplier. With the production process explained you should be in a better position to have confidence in the viability of cold work steel.
A Closer Look at the Production Parameters
A quick introduction to the cold working process parameters should familiarize you with the efficacy of the metal alloy. During cold working, the metal in production is plastically worked on while it's below the recrystallization temperature. Such a process has been shown to improve the strength, machinability, and surface finish of the metal. The procedures deployed include cold rolling or cold drawing through a die.
Cold rolling is usually considered the more effective means to achieve superb strength and hardness in the metal. In fact, hot-rolled steel is also cold-rolled to ensure that the final product showcases the required metallurgical properties. As for surface irregularities, cold-rolled steel can be ten times smoother compared to the hot-rolled varieties. The smoother surface also makes it the ideal choice for precision tooling. The relatively smoother surface also makes it the automatic choice to shape consumer goods, relying on a high degree of surface finish.
Invest wisely!
Finally, cold rolling is a far more inexpensive process because it does not generate any metal waste. Without the additional schema of scrap metal, manufacturers can invest in cost-effective production chains for these steel types. In addition, the costs are further offset by the offsetting of soaking pits and furnaces, which are imperative for hot-rolled products. You need to contact TGKSSL to get a clear estimate of the costs involved in procuring steel for your precision tooling priorities.