HSS M42 wire rod

M42 high speed steel is a cobalt molybdenum tools steel, the addition of 8% cobalt means that M42 delivers superior red-hardness when compared to M2. The composition of M42 makes for a good balance of toughness and hardness and can be found widely used for all types of cutting tools, often used for machining materials and super alloys that are difficult to machine. M42 exhibits excellent wear resistance by virtue of high heat-treated hardness (68 to 70 HRC), and the high cobalt content imparts the hot hardness. As such, the cutting edges on tools made from M42 super high speed steel stay sharp and hard in heavy-duty and high-production cutting applications.

Applications:

Suitable for manufacturing various strong cutting tools with wear-resistant, resistant to impact. Advanced punching die, screw die, the toughness and complicated shape of the punch, etc. Roll cutting tool industry: scraper, serrated knife, iron knives, drill bits, etc.

Forging industry: forging die.

Screw industry: heading forming mould, such as teeth, punch        

RELATIVE PROPERTIES

Quick Detail: M42  wire rod

COMPOSITION

HEAT TREATING INSTRUCTIONS： HARDENING

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

· Density: 0.282 lb/in3 (7806 kg/m3)

· Specific Gravity: 7.81

· Modulus of Elasticity: 30 x 106 psi (207 GPa)

· Machinability: 35-40% of a 1% carbon steel

Preheating: Heat at a rate not exceeding 400°F per hour (222°C per hour) to 1500-1600°F (816-871°C), and equalize.

Austenitizing (High Heat): Heat rapidly from the preheat.

Furnace: 2150-2175°F (1177-1191°C)

Salt: 2125-2150°F (1163-1177°C)

To maximize toughness, use the lowest temperature.

To maximize hot hardness, use the highest temperature.

Quenching: Pressurized gas, warm oil, or salt. For pressurized gas, a rapid quench rate to below 1000°F

(538°C) is critical to obtain the desired properties. 

For oil, quench until black, about 900°F (482°C), then cool in still air to 150 -125°F (66-51°C).

For salt maintained at 1000-1100°F (538-593°C), equalize, then cool in still air to 150 -125°F (66-51°C).

Tempering: Temper immediately after quenching. Typical tempering range is 950-1050°F (510-566°C). Hold at temperature for 2 hours, then air cool to ambient temperature. Triple tempering is required.