Description

D6 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its excellent wear resistance, toughness, and dimensional stability. It is commonly used in various tooling applications where extreme hardness and durability are required.

Applications

D6 tool steel is widely used in the manufacturing of cold work tools, such as punches, dies, cutting tools, shear blades, and gauges. It is also suitable for applications where high wear resistance and toughness are essential, including blanking and forming dies, thread rolling dies, and slitting knives.

Blacksmith Applications

Blacksmiths can utilize D6 tool steel for making specialized tools like hammers, chisels, and punches. Due to its exceptional hardness and toughness, D6 can withstand heavy forging and striking forces, making it ideal for shaping and manipulating metal.

D6 Forging Temperature

Forging of D6 tool steel should be carried out between 2100°F - 2300°F (1149°C to 1260°C), followed by slow cooling in a furnace or insulating material.

D6 Heat Treatment

D6 Annealing Temperature

To relieve internal stresses and improve machinability, annealing of D6 tool steel is typically conducted at 1450°F (788°C) for a sufficient amount of time, followed by slow cooling in the furnace.

D6 Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing can be performed on D6 tool steel by heating it to 1700°F to 1800°F (927°C to 982°C) for a proper soak time, followed by air cooling. This process refines the structure and enhances its mechanical properties.

D6 Hardening Temperature

Hardening of D6 tool steel is achieved by heating the steel to 1550°F to 1600°F (843°C to 871°C) and then quenching in oil, salt bath, or air. This process ensures high hardness and wear resistance.

D6 Tempering Temperature

For optimal balance between hardness and toughness, tempering of D6 tool steel should be carried out between 300°F to 1000°F (149°C to 538°C), depending on the desired properties.

Machinability

D6 tool steel possesses good machinability with appropriate cutting tools and techniques. It allows for efficient shaping, cutting, and drilling processes, especially when using carbide tools.

Weldability

D6 tool steel has moderate weldability. Preheating and post-weld heat treatment are often required to minimize cracking and achieve desired properties. Welding should be performed by using low-hydrogen methods.