Stainless grade faces off with tool steel performance

Related Vendors

AMPCO METAL Deutschland GbmH

Ramada Acos

INDUSTEEL Creusot

Thermal conductivity

In injection moulding, good thermal conductivity enables cost savings and increased productivity thanks to faster cycle times and better part quality. The higher the thermal conductivity, the faster the heat will be removed from the plastic and from the mould.

The new steel was designed to offer improved thermal properties versus other mould base steels. The thermal characteristics of the grade were then determined and compared with the mould base steel W 1.2085. Thermal diffusivity was assessed with the laser flash method according to standards ASTM E-1461 and DIN 30905, and thermal conductivity was determined from the product of thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity and density.

Thermal conductivity of the new steel was found to be almost 20% higher than values determined for the steel W 1.2085, according to research.

Conclusion

Thanks to its original chemistry, combined with an optimised manufacturing process, the new free-machining martensitic stainless steel exhibits the following benefits compared to standard steel grade DIN X33 CrS 16 (W 1.2085):

• Improved machinability with an increase in productivity and cutting tool life,

• Higher thermal properties that ensure faster cycle times as well as better part quality,

• High and consistent mechanical characteristics to guarantee mould durability,

• Good corrosion resistance that reduces maintenance costs and extends mould life.

• High dimensional stability thanks to double-tempering operations performed on plates.

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