SELECT THE RIGHT TOOL STEEL FOR MOLD CAVITIES

With cavity steel or alloy selection, many variables can dictate the best option. Things that need to be considered are the material you`ll be molding, cycle-time expectations, part criteria, expected volume, tooling costs, and maintenance. The goal here is not to suggest, recommend, or give preference to any specific steel or alloy, but to offer some guidance you should take into account when making the selection.

YK30 (SK3) CARBON GRADE T10A.

Uses: Stripping, up and down pads, splints with higher requirements, female and male molds with lower requirements.

Mechanical properties: heat treatment quenching temperature 760°, return water temperature 140°~250°, hardness HRC50°~58°.

D3, ALLOY TOOL STEEL, GRADE C12.

Uses: Stripping, underlaying, female and male molds with lower requirements.

Mechanical properties: heat treatment quenching temperature 950°~980°, return water temperature 180°~250°, hardness HRC50°~56°.

SKD11, GRADE CR12M0V

Uses: Male molds, female molds, and molds with higher requirements, such as stripping of continuous molds of stainless steel shrapnel, etc.

Mechanical properties: heat treatment quenching temperature 980°~1050°, return water temperature 180°~250°, hardness HRC 55°~62°.