Tool Steel for Plastic Molds: Why It’s the Material of Choice

Among the various applications of tool steel, one of its most popular uses is for making plastic moulds. Manufacturers automatically prefer the carbon alloy because of its wide set of unique properties, making it a suitable application for the process. The results are remarkably perfect and work extremely well to meet your production priorities in the factory. Here are the reasons why it is preferred over other varieties of steel for the plastic moulding process.

 

Unique Properties of Tool Steel

 

Know the unique properties below:

 

  1. Offers Optimum Flexibility and Versatility: The compound is available in several variations, calibrated according to the attributes of hardness sustained. Since you can access the different types of tool steels, you can assign them to various tasks according to the preferences of the project. Such a wide scale of versatility is rarely available in other metals, as you can simply switch from one type to another depending on the priorities of the project.
  2. It is widely available: Working with a reputed plastic mould steel supplier ensures that you have access to the constant supply of the product, even within a tight logistical framework. Since it is so easily available, you can get it ready for the manufacture of a wide range of tools. Even in the event of wear and tear, you can easily replace a machine part. This goes on to assure that the supply chain is not interrupted even after the stress of a heavy-duty production process.
  3. High Degrees of Heat Resistance: One of the key prerequisites of the plastic moulding process is the ability to withstand a high volume of heat. This kind of steel is increasingly preferred because it has a high resistance to heat and is thus able to handle the injection process of making the moulds. Since the process involves cutting the workpiece into smaller parts, a huge amount of heat and pressure dynamics are involved.
  4. It is an extremely hard material: The core hardness of this material ensures that you can cut through the workpieces without wear and tear. This attribute is considered extremely vital to set out the right molds from the injection process.

 

Types of Steel Used for the Moulding Process  

Since several varieties of the material are available, you will have to compare the pros and cons of each to determine the right application for your process. Check out these key types to assume the best applications in the production process.

 

  1. P-20 Pre Hardened

 

It is known to be the hardest variants of the steel. The P-20 can be cast easily and put to use immediately without the need for any further adjustments. Also, additional heat treatment is not necessary once you have configured the right moulds. Plus, the extreme versatility of the materials means that you can use them for different purposes, such as being used as a cutting tool or for holding workpieces.

 

  1. S-7 Pre-Hardened

 

This particular variant is reputed for its high tolerance to heat. This is why it is preferred for making moulds that can perform for long hours, something that is a prerequisite for mass production systems. Even when the pressure and temperature are raised, the steel displays a high resistance to softening.

 

  1. H-13 Steel

 

The H-13 variant is often preferred for high-volume work. One of the most important properties of this is the high resistance to thermal fatigue that effectively ensures no chipping or cracking of the tool during an intensive production process.  

 

Conclusion

Any reputed organization like Kushal metals will provide you with quality products. Contact today!