

M2, M35, M42 High-Speed Tool Steels,Properties,Applications,Composition
- Description
Description
M2, M35, M42 High-Speed Tool Steels, Price, Properties, Applications, Composition.
High-speed tool steels (HSS) are engineered for superior performance in cutting tool applications.
The term “high-speed” originated when these steels were first developed, referring to their ability to withstand high turning speeds on lathes without losing hardness.
Some tools made from high-speed steel can reach temperatures as high as 1100°F (593°C) during operation, glowing dull red while still maintaining their cutting efficiency.
This exceptional heat resistance is known as red hardness or hot hardness, making HSS the preferred choice for high-performance machining and cutting tools.
Key Properties of M2, M35, M42 High-Speed Tool Steels.
High-speed steels are known for their:
✔ Exceptional Hardness & Strength – Ideal for heavy-duty cutting applications.
✔ Superior Heat Resistance – Retains hardness at elevated temperatures.
✔ High Wear Resistance – Extends tool life in demanding machining operations.
✔ Lower Toughness Compared to Cold Work Tool Steels – Some grades, such as M2 and powder metallurgy M4, are also used in cold work applications due to their strength and wear resistance.
Chemical Composition & Classification of M2, M35, M42 High-Speed Tool Steels.
To qualify as high-speed steel, alloys must meet the ASTM A600 Specification for High-Speed Tool Steels. These grades are categorized based on their alloy content:
- Intermediate High-Speed Steels (M50, M52) – Lower alloy content, offering a balance of hardness and toughness.
- Standard High-Speed Steels (M2, M4, T1, etc.) – Widely used in industrial cutting applications.
- Super High-Speed Steels (M35, M42, etc.) – Cobalt-bearing grades with enhanced hot hardness and wear resistance.
Advanced Powder Metallurgy (PM) Grades
Grades prefixed with DuraTech™ are produced using powder metallurgy (PM), resulting in unique combinations of strength, toughness, and wear resistance. Some variants are also available in resulfurized versions, which enhance machinability in the annealed state and grindability in the hardened state.
For a detailed comparison of high-speed steel grades and their properties, refer to the provided charts and data sheets.
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