Steel for
Die-Making and Molds
Selecting the right steel is essential for the manufacture of dies and moulds that must withstand extreme conditions of pressure, temperature and wear. The steels used in this sector are known for their strength and durability, essential characteristics for ensuring the precision and longevity of die-making tools and moulds.
Types of Steel Used in Dies and Molds
In industry, different types of steel are used depending on the specific needs of each application:
- Hot Work Steels: These steels, such as 1.2344, are resistant to high temperatures and wear, making them ideal for injection molds and dies that operate under severe thermal conditions.
- Cold Work Steels: Known for its high hardness and wear resistance, 1.2379 steel is used in applications where temperature is not a critical factor, but abrasion resistance is crucial.
- High Toughness Steels: Such as TOOLOX® steel, which combines high hardness with toughness, is ideal for tools that require a balance between impact resistance and wear.
Key Properties of Steels for Dies and Molds
Steel’s properties determine its performance in industrial applications. Among the most important are:
- Hardness: Steel’s ability to resist deformation is crucial to prolonging the life of dies and molds.
- Wear Resistance: Essential in applications where tools are in constant contact with other materials, such as metal cutting and forming.
- Toughness: A property that allows steels to absorb impacts without fracturing, essential for tools subjected to repeated shocks.
Heat Treatment Processes to Optimize Steel Performance
Heat treatment is a critical stage in preparing steel for die and mold applications. Common processes include:
- Quenching and Tempering: Improves the hardness and toughness of the steel, balancing wear resistance with the ability to absorb impacts.
- Normalizing: Helps refine the grain structure of the steel, improving its uniformity and strength.
Cutting and Machining of Steels for Dies and Molds
Precision in the cutting and machining of steel is vital to manufacturing tools that meet strict specifications. Aceros y Servicios, for example, offers advanced techniques such as:
- Laser Cutting: Ideal for obtaining parts with clean and precise cuts, reducing the need for subsequent finishing.
- Precision Machining: Involves roughing, semi-finishing and finishing processes, essential to achieve the tolerances required in high-precision tools.
Selecting the Right Steel for Each Application
Selecting the right steel involves considering factors such as the load to which it will be subjected, the operating temperature, and the need for wear resistance. At Aceros y Servicios we advise our clients in this process, ensuring that each project uses the most suitable material and the most efficient process for optimal results.
The Steel Sector for Dies and Molds
Innovations in Steels for Dies and Molds
The steel industry is no stranger to innovation. The development of new materials and processes, such as TOOLOX® steels, is revolutionising the way moulds and dies are designed and manufactured, offering improved properties that extend tool life and improve the efficiency of production processes.
Economic Impact of Choosing High Quality Steels
Investing in high-quality steels may seem expensive in the short term, but the long-term benefits, such as reduced downtime, fewer tool replacements and increased productivity, more than offset this initial investment.
Conclusion: The Future of Steels in the Mold and Die Industry
The demand for more durable and efficient steels will continue to grow as industries seek to optimize their production processes. That is why at Aceros y Servicios we dedicate time and resources to staying at the forefront and offering optimal service, not only by providing high-quality materials, but also by offering comprehensive solutions that ensure the long-term success of our clients.
INTEGRAL SERVICE
More than a product, a Partner
We align what you want with what you need. Knowing the project well is the basis of everything.
Your pieces from paper to reality executed with mastery.
Always by your side. Making your everyday work easier and more functional.
INTEGRAL SERVICE
More than a product, a Partner
We align what you want with what you need. Knowing the project well is the basis of everything.
Your pieces from paper to reality executed with mastery.
Always by your side. Making your everyday work easier and more functional.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR THE BEST SOLUTION
We bring to life the pieces that will improve your product and your production processes.
All our work of involvement and knowledge is summarized in steel pieces specifically designed for the mission you have prepared for them.
