HSS tools in demand world-wide

HSS cutting tools are witnessing worldwide growth that shows no sign of slowing down. The increase is supported by steady demand from key segments, such as automotive and construction, as well as heavy electrical and industrial equipment.

Despite growing competition from solid carbide, HSS continues to be popular due to its high hardness and wear resistance at an affordable price. But its best feature is its toughness. HSS cutting tools are best-suited to job shop production environments where versatility and tool cost are most important. In these cases, the material plays a major part in the efficient, reliable machining of a variety of components. Product quality at a cost-effective price is proving attractive in the present global economic climate.

HSS continues to be popular at machine shops because of its toughness properties, as displayed by Precision Twist Drill’s R10P HSS drill with bright finish. Image courtesy of Dormer Pramet

To support growing worldwide demand for HSS, cutting tool manufacturers have committed extensive resources to this segment, including increased investment in R&D activities. These investments have led to HSS tools becoming more reliable, with improved quality, lower production costs and shorter lead times. The addition of improved substrates, including powder metallurgy and coatings, has been instrumental in further enhancing performance of HSS tools.

A typical HSS composition features chromium (4 percent), tungsten (6 percent), molybdenum (5 percent), vanadium (2 percent) and carbon (1 percent). The different grades depend on the varying levels of elements added. The result is a tool material with high toughness that isn’t likely to fracture or break.

A conventional HSS-E composition is slightly different due largely to the addition of cobalt (between 5 and 8 percent), an increase of molybdenum (up to 9 percent) and a decrease of tungsten (down to 1.5 percent). These differences give higher hot hardness and wear
resistance compared with HSS. Typically, tools made with the addition of more cobalt are for specific
applications.

HSS tools resist vibrations, whatever the type of machine tool, even if rigidity has been lost over time and regardless of workpiece clamping conditions. HSS prevents mechanical shocks at the tooth level when milling and copes with varying lubrication conditions that may result in thermal changes.

Also, thanks to the unique strength of HSS, tool manufacturers can produce extremely sharp cutting edges. This makes it easier to machine difficult-to-cut materials and reduces workhardening of austenitic stainless steels and nickel alloys.