Description

O1 tool steel is a versatile oil-hardening tool steel known for its excellent dimensional stability and wear resistance. It is commonly used in various tooling applications.

Applications

O1 tool steel is widely used in applications such as punches, dies, blanking and forming tools, gauges, thread rolling dies, and woodworking tools.

Blacksmith Applications

Blacksmiths often use O1 tool steel for making custom tools, blades, and various striking tools that require high hardness and wear resistance.

O1 Forging Temperature

Forging should be done between 1600°F to 1700°F (871°C to 927°C), followed by slow cooling in a furnace or insulating material.

O1 Heat Treatment

O1 Annealing Temperature

Annealing is typically performed at 1450°F to 1500°F (788°C to 816°C) for a sufficient amount of time, followed by slow cooling in the furnace.

O1 Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing can be carried out at 1600°F to 1650°F (871°C to 899°C) for a proper soak time, followed by air cooling.

O1 Hardening Temperature

Hardening is achieved by heating the steel to 1475°F to 1500°F (802°C to 816°C) and then quenching in oil, salt bath, or air to achieve the desired hardness.

O1 Tempering Temperature

Tempering should be performed between 300°F to 600°F (149°C to 316°C) to achieve the desired hardness and toughness.

Machinability

O1 tool steel has a machinability rating of 90, indicating excellent machinability with standard machining processes. It can be machined in the annealed or hardened condition.

Weldability

O1 tool steel has poor weldability and is not recommended for welding. Preheating and post-weld heat treatment are crucial if welding is necessary.