Fast Times in HSS

Related Glossary Terms

• alloys
  

  alloys

  Substances having metallic properties and being composed of two or more chemical elements of which at least one is a metal.

• high-speed steels ( HSS)
  

  high-speed steels ( HSS)

  Available in two major types: tungsten high-speed steels (designated by letter T having tungsten as the principal alloying element) and molybdenum high-speed steels (designated by letter M having molybdenum as the principal alloying element). The type T high-speed steels containing cobalt have higher wear resistance and greater red (hot) hardness, withstanding cutting temperature up to 1,100º F (590º C). The type T steels are used to fabricate metalcutting tools (milling cutters, drills, reamers and taps), woodworking tools, various types of punches and dies, ball and roller bearings. The type M steels are used for cutting tools and various types of dies.