If you need to manufacture custom steel tools, then you need to choose the right metal for the job. Typically, your best option here is a specialist tool steel. How are tool steels made? Why should you use them?

What Is a Tool Steel?

You can choose from different types of steel when you manufacture or construct something in this metal. If you need to make tools, then tooling steel is the recommended solution.

Regular steels don't necessarily work well as tool parts and tooling products. They don't have the capabilities you need to create tools that can do hard, specialist or repetitive work. They don't deal well with complex environmental and working conditions.  

Tool steels have these capabilities. They don't just contain steel but also contain other materials, such as metal alloys or carbides. These extra ingredients enhance their capabilities and make them last longer.

So, for example, tool steel might contain some chromium, molybdenum, tungsten or vanadium. Each of these carbides changes the properties of the base metal and makes it perform more effectively.

However, you don't have just one kind of tool steel to choose from here. You can create a customized metal by tweaking its content mix and by changing its dissolution rates and heat treatment times.

Why Use a Tool Steel?

Regular steels might wear too fast or break too easily if you use them to make tools. For example, a cutting tool might lose its edge too fast; it might wear and break because it can't cope with regular exposure to friction, heat and contact forces.

If your tools aren't fit for purpose, then your replacement costs will increase. Plus, your tools won't give you precise results.

For example, a cutting tool that blunts too fast won't cut efficiently. It will work well for a while; however, it will then lose its cutting edge. It will take longer to cut, and your cuts will be less smooth and precise.

If you use tool steel, then you can reinforce the base metal to make it work better for a longer period. You can eliminate the deficiencies of regular steel by adding materials that will make the steel stronger, sharper and more resistant to environmental and working damage.

This process helps you create the perfect tools for any job. Your tools will, therefore, work more efficiently and last for longer. You'll make a more cost-effective material investment.

For more advice on which tool steel to use for your products, contact steelwork companies.