The processing of fibre-reinforced plastics requires hardenable, corrosion-resistant tool steels with a high carbide content, approx. 13 to 20 % Chromium, additions of Molybdenum, Tungsten and Vanadium and a hardness of 50 to over 60 HRC. In High-Nitrogen Steels, Carbon is partially replaced by Nitrogen to achieve a hardness of approx. 58 HRC with the best corrosion resistance.
This group of steels is specially designed for use as corrosion-resistant tool steels in plastics processing when corrosion and wear resistance are of primary importance, as is the case, for example, when processing fibre-reinforced and heavily filled, aggressive plastics. Experience shows that corrosion-resistant tool steels with hardnesses of over 50 HRC are then required. Under particularly critical operating conditions, however, steels with a higher carbide content and hardnesses above 60 HRC are often essential.
Steels in this product group are usually selected hardenable, martensitic stainless steels with approx. 13 to 20 % Cr , alloyed with Mo , W and V and a C content of approx. 0.40 to over 2%.
In general, the production of these steels with regard to purity, homogeneity and analytical balance takes special account of the needs of plastics processing with regard to polishability and corrosion resistance, and high-purity steels are frequently produced by remelting processes, e.g. electroslag (ESR), or extremely homogeneous, high-alloy steels are produced by powder metallurgy.
A special category of hardenable corrosion resistant steels are High Nitrogen Steels (HNS). In such steels the high Carbon (C)- content present usually in steels of this group is reduced and part of the Carbon is replaced by Nitrogen(N). This results in a hardness of approx. 58 HRC together with the best corrosion resistance and optimum homogeneity and prevents the excessive bonding of Chromium in the form of carbides. Usually remelting of this steel takes place in the special Pressure Electroslag Remelting Process (PESR).
Uddeholm Corrax is a precipitation hardening steel with a unique set of properties that makes it perfect for many demanding applications. The superior resistance against corrosion combined with a hardness up to 50 HRC and a simple heat treatment makes Uddeholm Corrax the obvious choice for long run series of aggressive plastics such as PVC. The chemical composition makes Uddeholm Corrax easy to process by Additive Manufacturing. Hence, it is also available as powder for Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) and Laser Metal Deposition (LMD). Benefits Very good corrosion resistance Flexible hardness of 34-50 HRC achieved by ageing No hard “white layer” after EDM
Read MoreUddeholm Mirrax ESR is a through hardening corrosion resistant steel with very good polishability. Mainly intended for medium to large cross sections. It has a unique combination of toughness, corrosion resistance and through hardening properties. Benefits Low mould maintenance costs: The surface of cavity impressions retain their original finish over extended running periods. Moulds stored or operated in humid conditions require less protection. Low production costs: Water cooling channels are less affected by corrosion Heat transfer characteristics, and therefore cooling efficiency, are constant throughout the mould life, ensuring consistent cycle times. Safe mould use because of good toughness also in big dimensions
Read MoreUddeholm Stavax ESR is a premium stainless mould steel for small and medium inserts and cores. Uddeholm Stavax ESR combines corrosion and wear resistance with excellent polishability, good machinability and stability in hardening. Mould maintenance requirement is reduced by assuring that core and cavity surfaces retain their original finish over extended operating periods. When compared with non stainless mould steel, Uddeholm Stavax ESR offers lower production costs by maintaining rust free cooling channels, assuring consistent cooling and cycle time. This classic stainless tool steel is the right choice when rust in production is unacceptable and where requirements for good hygiene are high, as within the medical industry, optical industry and for other high quality transparent parts. Uddeholm Stavax ESR is a part of the Uddeholm Stainless Concept. Benefits Low mould maintenance because of corrosion resistance: Surfaces retain their original finish Less production during storing and operation in humid condition Lower production costs: Since water-cooling channels are unaffected by corrosion Heat transfer characteristics, and therefore cooling efficiency, are constant throughout the mould life, ensuring consistent cycle times. Long life mould Standard specification W.nr 1.2083 / AISI 420 / AFNOR Z40 CV 14 (RSL)
Read MoreUddeholm Tyrax ESR combines best in class toughness, corrosion and wear resistance. This grade was developed for molding of high performance plastics often filled with glass fiber reinforcements and additives like flame retardants. This matrix- based microstructure is designed to achieve a high-gloss surface by only a few polishing steps, dramatically reducing the tool lead time and enabling production of top quality plastic parts. Uddeholm Tyrax ESR can achieve a high hardness (up to 58 HRC) and is a suitable upgrade from AISI 420 ESR, AISI S7 and AISI 440C. Benefits good dimensional stability at heat treatment and in service even microstructure and small grain size good hardenability Uddeholm Tyrax is also available for Additive Manufacturing, powder for processing Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) and Laser Metal Deposition (LMD).
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