When you are in metalworking, you are often faced with that constant pressure to be more efficient and precise. This is especially the case if you are a machinist. The use of high-speed tool steels or HSS offers a great means of achieving both precision and efficiency, but even such durable tools can succumb to wear and tear if they are not provided with proper care and attention.

About High-Speed Tool Steels

High-speed steel or HSS is a category of alloy steels that contain certain key elements like molybdenum, chromium, vanadium, and tungsten. Any high speed steel supplier will explain that having such a unique composition of metals endows HSS with a number of advantages.

• HSS possesses a hardness that enables it to maintain its cutting edge even when temperatures are elevated, allowing for the machining of much harder materials when compared to the traditional carbon steel.
• HSS is tough and shows quite a resistance to breakage and chipping which is extremely crucial for withstanding the pressures of machining operations.
• HSS is heat resistant as your high speed steel supplier may very well inform you. It is able to retain its hardness when moderate temperatures are generated during the process of machining. This helps to lessen tool deterioration and wear.

Getting The Most Out of HSS

It is very important to note that, although HSS offers many benefits, such steels do not last forever. There are factors like incorrect parameters when machining, inadequate cooling, and improper use that can greatly shorten the lifespan of tools.

When Machining

In order to get the most out of high-speed tool steels, most high speed steel supplier recommend matching machining parameters to the tool material and the specific application.  Though HSS can handle high speeds better than traditional carbon steels, going too fast or exceeding the recommended speed setting for a specific material and tool combination will produce excessive heat that can cause wear. Making use of an appropriate feed rate will help to reduce cutting forces and prevent chipping as well as breakage. Another very important consideration is the depth of the cut as it needs to be carefully chosen to prevent greater stresses on the tool.

Cooling and Lubrication

All high speed steel supplier are very much aware of how effective lubrication and cooling practices are critical to maximizing the life of an HSS tool. Using the appropriate or recommended coolant for the specific application and material that is being machined will help to extend the life of HSS. The use of the appropriate coolant aids in reducing heat that is generated at the cutting zone. The coolant also needs to be applied properly; directed at the point of contact between the work item or workpiece and the tool.

Additional Tips

Beyond making use of proper machining parameters and the use of practice of proper cooling and lubrication, there are some practices that may help extend tool life.

• Choosing the proper HSS tool based on the machining operation as well as the material that will be machined definitely helps.
• Maintaining the sharp edges of the HSS tools goes a long way towards avoiding untimely wear and excessive heat generation. Your high speed steel supplier will be able to advise as to the recommended sharpening frequency and appropriate grinding techniques.
• Proper storage of HSS tools and their proper handling will greatly aid in corrosion prevention, chipping, and damaging sharp edges.

These are just some strategies that can help you to extend the life of your HSS tools. It is important to note that manufacturers provide information regarding how to properly care for HSS and your high speed steel supplier will also be able to provide you with more information.