The choice of the most suitable steel for each mould is an important factor in the construction of a mould for technical rubber items or O-rings. In fact, each steel has its own features that make it particularly suitable for a specific use. Consequently, the choice of the best performing steel is essential.
We at OCS support our customers in the steel selection phase and today we would like to explain to you the main types of steel and their specific features.
1. Steel 1.1730, or more commonly called C45
This is the steel most commonly used to build moulds for O-rings and for pilot moulds. The quality / price ratio is certainly a plus with this type of steel which can be classified among the cheapest. In addition, it has excellent workability and high toughness for minor applications. The combination of this steel with a chrome plating treatment achieves excellent resistance results at an affordable price.
2. Steel 1.2311
It is a steel generally supplied in the quenched state. It has excellent polishing and photoengraving features. This material is ideal for electrical discharge machining as it contains a low amount of sulphur. In addition, it has a marked hardening penetrability which makes it suitable for sections up to 400 mm.
3. Steel 1.2312
It is a pre-quenched steel very common in the automotive and food industry and ideal for small/medium-sized moulds. If you are looking for greater mechanical strength, good polishing qualities and better resistance to wear and corrosion then this is the steel for you. In fact, thanks to its high hardness, the mould lifetime increases by up to 30%.
4. Steel 1.2343 – 1.2344
This is a typical hardening steel, with resistance to very high temperatures. In fact, once hardened it can reach a hardness level of up to 55 HRC.
We choose this kind of steel to produce those moulds that have to face a very long production phase and, consequently, it is necessary that the mould lasts over time and also for moulds that work at high temperatures (between 450 and 600 degrees).
5. Stainless Steels
The hardening stainless steels are: Stavax, Mirrax, Ramax, Corrax and Toolox.Corrax steel, for example, is perfect for the medical sector. It has very good corrosion resistance. In fact, moulds made with this steel are not likely to be damaged by humidity or heat treatments.
This is our overview of the main types of steel. Needless to say, there are still many kinds of steel to discover and test. In the meantime, if you want to find out more about the world of steel in relation to the moulds for technical rubber articles and O-rings, contact us for a non-binding consultation.
