O1 Tool Steel is one of the most versatile and widely used tool steels in manufacturing and metalworking industries. O1 is often referred to as the oil-hardening, "non-shrinking" tool steel, and can be hardened to the Rockwell C 65 range from a low austenitizing temperature.
This general-purpose tool steel offers an exceptional balance of machinability, dimensional stability, and wear resistance. Its characteristics give O1 the suitability for manufacturing tools. Whether you're a tool and die maker, machinist, or procurement professional, understanding O1's properties and applications is essential for making informed material selection decisions.
What is O1 Tool Steel?
O1 Tool Steel is an oil-hardening, “non-shrinking” and versatile tool steel that can be hardened to the Rockwell C 65 range from a low austenitizing temperature. O1 Tool Steel is known as a low-alloy steel because it contains several additives. O1 belongs to the "O series" of tool steels. They are classified as oil-hardening cold-work steel and contain high Carbon content (around 1%).
|
Chemical Composition |
|
|
0.95 |
|
|
Manganese (Mn) |
1.2 |
|
Tungsten (W) |
0.50 |
|
Chromium (Cr) |
0.50 |
|
Vanadium (V) |
0.15 |
|
Silicone (Si) |
0.4 |
|
Phosphorus (P) |
0.3 |
|
Sulphur (S) |
0.03 |
O1 steel is in compliance with SAE J437 and J438, ASTM A681, and DIN 1.2510.
Typical Applications for O1 Steel:
- Cutting Tools:
- Knives
- Saws
- Chisels
- Woodworking tools
- Straight Edges
- Dies and Forming Tools:
- Blanking Dies
- Draw Dies
- Forming Dies
- Lamination Dies
- Molding Dies
- Swaging Dies
- Screw Dies
- Trim Dies
- Precision Components:
- Gauges
- Shims
- Stamps
- Jigs
- Cutters
- Guides
- Machine Components:
- Levers
- Machine Parts
- Punches
- Bushings
O1 Tool Steel is a general-purpose tool steel that is commonly used to provide ample hardness, strength, or wear resistance. It generally produces a strong edge and can be sharpened; however, it does not dull easily.
Key Properties and Characteristics
Machinability
O1 Tool Steel offers good machinability, particularly in its annealed state. However, care must be taken to use appropriate tooling and cutting speeds to avoid tool wear. When properly annealed, O1 has a machinability rating of 90 when compared to a 1% Carbon Steel rated at 100.
Dimensional Stability
When oil quenched from the proper hardening temperature, this grade can be expected to expand approximately .0015 inches per inch. This minimal dimensional change makes O1 ideal for precision tooling applications.
Wear Resistance
O1 tool steel is suitable for applications requiring high wear resistance and a material that can maintain sharp edges. Its tensile and yield strengths indicate good performance under mechanical loading, while its hardness ensures durability in cutting applications.
Corrosion Resistance
O1 tool steel also exhibits moderate corrosion resistance, particularly in atmospheric conditions. However, it is susceptible to rusting and pitting in acidic environments. Compared to stainless steels, O1's corrosion resistance is significantly lower, making it less suitable for applications exposed to harsh chemicals or moisture.
Heat Treatment
The heat treatment requires O1 steels to be slowly preheated to 1200°F and then heated at 1450-1500°F. Then these steels should be held at the same temperature for 10 to 30 minutes, and finally, oil quenched.
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Annealing: 1140 - 1000° F
- Stress Relieving: 1200 - 1250° F
- Hardening: 1450 - 1500° F
- Quenching: Oil quench to 125° F
- Tempering: 300 - 450° F
O1 Tool Steel can be welded, but care must be taken to avoid cracking. Preheating before welding and post-weld heat treatment are essential to relieve stresses and maintain properties.
What is the Hardness of O2 Tool Steel?
Hardness tests determine the various properties of a specific metal, which include its resistance to wear, toughness, and formability. Two widely used tests are Rockwell C and Brinell. Rockwell C is measured in the unit HRC, which is the measurement used below.
|
Tempering Temperature |
Rockwell Hardness |
|
As hardened |
C 63-65 |
|
300°F |
C 63-64 |
|
400°F |
C 61-62 |
|
500°F |
C 58-60 |
|
600°F |
C 54-56 |
|
800°F |
C 48-50 |
|
1000°F |
C 39-41 |
Order O1 Tool Steel Today
At Southern Tool Steel, we're known as a supplier of high-quality tool steel and other metals. Our broad range of materials, from steel, aluminum, and brass to bronze and copper, is available for distribution nationwide, with no minimum order required.
Advantages of ordering from Southern Tool Steel include:
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Consistent quality meeting necessary specifications
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Available in various sizes and forms
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Expert technical support for material selection
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Fast delivery nationwide
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Competitive pricing with no minimum orders
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Material certifications available upon request
Contact our service team today for more information and to discuss your specific application, or order online today.