Description

M4 High-Speed Steel is a high-performance tool steel known for its excellent hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. It is commonly used in cutting tools and applications where high-speed and high-temperature performance is required.

Applications

M4 High-Speed Steel is widely used in the manufacturing of drills, taps, milling cutters, reamers, broaches, and other cutting tools for machining hard materials. It is also used in applications such as cold work tooling, punches, dies, and forming tools.

Blacksmith Applications

For blacksmiths, M4 High-Speed Steel can be used in the production of specialized blacksmithing tools such as hot chisels, punches, and drifts. Its exceptional hardness and wear resistance make it suitable for forging and manipulating hot metal.

M4 High-Speed Steel Forging Temperature

Forging should be done between 2200°F - 2250°F (1204°C to 1232°C), followed by slow cooling in a furnace or insulating material to reduce the risk of cracking.

M4 High-Speed Steel Heat Treatment

M4 High-Speed Steel Annealing Temperature

Annealing is typically performed at 1550°F to 1600°F (843°C to 871°C) for a sufficient amount of time, followed by slow cooling in the furnace to relieve internal stresses.

M4 High-Speed Steel Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing can be carried out at 1650°F to 1700°F (899°C to 927°C) for a proper soak time, followed by air cooling.

M4 High-Speed Steel Hardening Temperature

Hardening is achieved by heating the steel to 2200°F to 2250°F (1204°C to 1232°C) and then quenching in air, salt bath, or oil depending on the desired hardness and properties.

M4 High-Speed Steel Tempering Temperature

Tempering should be performed between 1000°F to 1150°F (538°C to 621°C) to achieve the desired hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability.

Machinability

M4 High-Speed Steel has a machinability rating of 65, indicating good machinability with proper cutting tools and techniques. Carbide or high-speed steel cutting tools are recommended.

Weldability

M4 High-Speed Steel has limited weldability. It is generally not recommended for welding due to its high carbon and alloy content, which may lead to cracking and loss of properties.