Description

L6 tool steel is a versatile, low-alloy tool steel known for its exceptional toughness and high wear resistance. It is commonly used in various industrial applications that require excellent strength and durability.

Applications

L6 tool steel is widely used in the manufacturing of punches, dies, shear blades, cutting tools, forming tools, and other components where high impact resistance and excellent toughness are crucial.

Blacksmith Applications

For blacksmiths, L6 tool steel is commonly used to create hammers, punches, chisels, and other striking tools that require superior strength and resistance to deformation.

L6 Forging Temperature

Forging should be carried out between 2000°F - 2200°F (1093°C - 1204°C), followed by slow cooling in a furnace or insulating material to relieve stresses and achieve desired properties.

L6 Heat Treatment

L6 Annealing Temperature

Annealing is typically performed at 1450°F (788°C) for a sufficient amount of time, followed by slow cooling in the furnace to eliminate internal stresses and enhance machinability.

L6 Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing can be done at 1600°F - 1700°F (871°C - 927°C) for a proper soak time to refine the grain structure, followed by air cooling.

L6 Hardening Temperature

Hardening is achieved by heating the steel to 1550°F - 1650°F (843°C - 899°C) and then quenching in oil, air, or salt bath to obtain maximum hardness and wear resistance.

L6 Tempering Temperature

Tempering should be performed between 400°F - 1100°F (204°C - 593°C) to relieve residual stresses and achieve the desired balance of hardness and toughness.

Machinability

L6 tool steel has a machinability rating of 60, indicating good machinability with suitable cutting tools and techniques.

Weldability

L6 tool steel has fair weldability. Preheating and post-weld heat treatment are often necessary to reduce the risk of cracking and attain desired properties.