Advancements in Tool Steel for Mould Making: What's New?

In plastic manufacturing, producing high-quality plastic parts requires reliable and durable moulds. The tool steel used in mould making plays a critical role in ensuring the longevity, performance, and cost-effectiveness of the moulds. The latest advancements in tool steel for mould making have introduced new materials and technologies that help manufacturers produce superior moulds that withstand the rigours of high-volume production.

Staying updated on advancements in tool steel for mould making is essential for businesses that rely on precision and durability. These advancements are revolutionizing the mould-making industry and providing companies with better options for creating high-quality plastic products. In this blog, we'll explore the latest developments in tool steel for mould making and how they're improving plastic injection moulding processes.

What is Tool Steel for Mould Making?

Tool steel is a high-strength, wear-resistant material specifically designed for making tools that need to endure heavy use and maintain precision. In the context of mould making, tool steel is used to create injection moulds for plastic parts. These moulds experience high pressure, heat, and repetitive cycles, which makes the quality of the tool steel critical. Tool steels are essential for creating moulds that provide the precision and durability required for high-quality plastic injection moulding.

What is the Best Tool Steel for Mould Making?

Choosing the right tool steel depends on factors like the type of plastic being moulded, the complexity of the parts, and production volume. Here are some of the most commonly used tool steels in mould making:

General Purpose Tool SteelP-20 Steel: P-20 is one of the most commonly used tool steels in plastic injection moulding. It offers a good balance of toughness, wear resistance, and machinability. This steel is ideal for general-purpose moulds used in moderate-volume production and is relatively cost-effective. It's perfect for less demanding applications where extreme durability isn't required.High-Performance Tool Steels

H-13 Steel: For high-volume production and complex moulds, H-13 is a popular choice due to its exceptional wear resistance and toughness. It can withstand high temperatures and is commonly used in moulds that handle heat-resistant plastics or abrasive materials. It's ideal for manufacturers who need long-lasting, high-performance moulds.

S-7 Steel: Known for its high strength and toughness, S-7 is often used for large, complex moulds that need to endure heavy impact and repeated wear. It's commonly used in industries that require intricate parts and tight tolerances.

Corrosion-Resistant Tool Steel420 Stainless Steel: In industries where moulds are exposed to corrosive materials or frequent cleaning, 420 stainless steel is a great option. It offers good corrosion resistance while also providing wear resistance, making it suitable for food and medical-grade products.How to Choose the Right Tool Steel for Plastic Parts Manufacturing

When selecting the right tool steel for plastic injection moulds, several factors should be considered, including the type of plastic, the complexity of the part, production volume, and the surface finish required. Here's a guide to help choose the ideal tool steel:

Plastic Material

Abrasive Plastics: For plastics containing fillers like glass fibers, H-13 or D-2 steels are recommended for their wear resistance.

Corrosive Plastics: If the plastic is corrosive, 420 stainless steel or P-20 with a special coating can help prevent rust and corrosion.

High-Temperature Plastics: Plastics requiring high processing temperatures benefit from heat-resistant steels like H-13 and D-2, which maintain strength and durability under high heat.