m2 steel
M2 steel stands as a versatile high-speed tool steel that combines exceptional hardness with remarkable wear resistance. This molybdenum-based high-speed steel contains significant amounts of tungsten, chromium, vanadium, and carbon, creating a material that excels in maintaining its hardness even at elevated temperatures. The composition typically includes 0.85% carbon, 4% chromium, 2% vanadium, 6% tungsten, and 5% molybdenum, resulting in a steel grade that offers superior cutting performance and durability. M2 steel demonstrates excellent red hardness, meaning it retains its cutting properties even when subjected to high temperatures during machining operations. This characteristic makes it particularly valuable for high-speed cutting tools and industrial applications where heat resistance is crucial. The material's unique properties stem from its carefully balanced composition and specialized heat treatment processes, which create a microstructure that provides both toughness and wear resistance. In industrial applications, M2 steel finds extensive use in manufacturing drill bits, taps, reamers, and various cutting tools. Its ability to maintain sharp edges while resisting wear makes it an ideal choice for both continuous and interrupted cutting operations. The steel's versatility extends to cold work applications, where its combination of wear resistance and toughness proves invaluable for tools subjected to repeated stress and wear.