Assab Steel Wires, 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire

Assab Steel Wires 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Assab Steel Wires 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Assab Steels 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # Product Datasheet: Assab Steels 8407 2M Premium ESR Hot Work Tool Steel ## Product Overview **Assab Steels 8407 2M** is a premium **electroslag remelted (ESR) chromium-molybdenum-vanadium hot work tool steel** designed for demanding applications requiring **exceptional directional properties, superior microcleanliness, and enhanced fatigue resistance**. As an enhanced version of the standard 8407/H13 material produced via the specialized ESR process, 8407 2M offers **improved isotropy, better polishability, and superior fatigue performance** compared to conventionally melted grades. This material is particularly valuable for critical die casting applications where reliability and extended service life are paramount. ## Key Characteristics & Advantages - **Superior Microcleanliness:** ESR process significantly reduces non-metallic inclusions - **Enhanced Isotropy:** More uniform mechanical properties in all directions - **Excellent Polishability:** Capable of achieving superior surface finishes - **Improved Fatigue Resistance:** Better performance under cyclic thermal and mechanical loading - **Good Machinability:** Better than many conventional hot work steels - **Excellent Toughness:** Maintains good impact resistance at elevated temperatures - **Good Thermal Conductivity:** Efficient heat dissipation - **Reduced Risk of Internal Defects:** ESR process minimizes segregation and porosity ## Standard Specifications & International Designations | Standard | Designation | Notes | |----------|-------------|-------| | **Assab/Uddeholm** | **8407 2M** | ESR premium quality | | **AISI/ASTM** | **H13 ESR** | Electroslag remelted version | | **DIN/EN** | **1.2344 ESR** | Enhanced quality grade | | **JIS** | **SKD61 ESR** | Premium ESR quality | | **ISO** | **HTF 4 ESR** | Hot work tool steel classification | | **Manufacturing Process** | **Electroslag Remelting** | Key differentiating factor | | **Material Category** | **Premium ESR Hot Work Steel** | For critical applications | ## Chemical Composition (Typical, Weight %) | Element | Content (%) | Primary Function | Benefit of ESR Processing | |---------|-------------|------------------|---------------------------| | **Carbon (C)** | 0.38-0.42 | Matrix strength & carbide formation | More consistent carbide distribution | | **Chromium (Cr)** | 5.00-5.50 | Heat resistance & hardenability | Improved oxidation resistance | | **Molybdenum (Mo)** | 1.30-1.50 | Hot strength & secondary hardening | Enhanced high-temperature stability | | **Vanadium (V)** | 0.90-1.10 | Carbide formation & grain refinement | Finer, more uniform carbides | | **Silicon (Si)** | 0.90-1.10 | Deoxidizer & temper resistance | More effective deoxidation | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.30-0.50 | Hardenability | More consistent hardening response | | **Sulfur (S)** | **≤0.002** | **Controlled ultra-low level** | **Significantly improved ductility** | | **Phosphorus (P)** | **≤0.012** | **Controlled ultra-low level** | **Enhanced toughness** | | **Iron (Fe)** | **Balance** | Matrix | **Reduced segregation** | ***Special Note:** The ESR (Electroslag Remelting) process significantly improves the microcleanliness and homogeneity of 8407 2M compared to conventionally melted 8407. This results in superior mechanical properties, particularly in terms of fatigue resistance and isotropy.* ## Microstructural Characteristics | Feature | Specification | Benefit of ESR Process | |---------|---------------|------------------------| | **Inclusion Content** | **ASTM E45 ≤ 0.5** | **Exceptional cleanliness** | | **Inclusion Type** | **Primarily fine, globular** | Reduced stress concentrators | | **Carbide Distribution** | **Highly uniform** | Consistent properties in all directions | | **Segregation** | **Minimal to none** | Improved isotropy | | **Grain Structure** | **Uniform, equiaxed** | Better mechanical properties | | **Porosity** | **Virtually eliminated** | Improved fatigue resistance | ## Typical Heat Treatment ### 1. Annealing - **Temperature:** **850-880°C (1560-1615°F)** - **Cooling:** Slow furnace cool (≤25°C/hour) to 600°C, then air cool - **Annealed Hardness:** **185-210 HB** - **ESR Advantage:** More consistent annealing response throughout cross-section ### 2. Stress Relieving - **Temperature:** **600-650°C (1110-1200°F)** - **Duration:** 2 hours per 25 mm thickness - **Application:** After rough machining, before final hardening ### 3. Hardening 1. **Preheating:** **650°C (1200°F)** and **850°C (1560°F)** 2. **Austenitizing:** **1000-1030°C (1830-1885°F)** - **Standard:** 1020-1030°C (1870-1885°F) - **High Toughness:** 1000-1010°C (1830-1850°F) - **Maximum Hot Strength:** 1025-1030°C (1875-1885°F) 3. **Soaking Time:** 20-40 minutes (depending on section size) 4. **Quenching:** **Air** or **high-pressure gas** (oil for complex shapes) - **ESR Advantage:** More uniform response to quenching ### 4. Tempering - **Immediate Requirement:** Temper immediately after cooling to 50-70°C - **Minimum Cycles:** **Double tempering** recommended - **Temperature Range:** **540-650°C (1005-1200°F)** - **Hardness Profile:** - 540°C (1005°F): 50-52 HRC - 560°C (1040°F): 48-50 HRC - 580°C (1075°F): 46-48 HRC - 600°C (1110°F): 44-46 HRC - 620°C (1150°F): 40-42 HRC ### 5. Nitriding (Optional but Recommended) - **Process:** Gas or plasma nitriding - **Temperature:** 480-530°C (895-985°F) - **Case Depth:** 0.1-0.3 mm typical - **Surface Hardness:** 1000-1200 HV - **ESR Advantage:** More consistent nitride layer formation ## Physical Properties | Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | ESR Advantage | |----------|-------|------|------------|---------------| | **Density** | 7.80 | g/cm³ | At 20°C | More consistent | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | 210 | GPa | At 20°C | More isotropic | | **Thermal Expansion Coefficient** | 11.5 | ×10⁻⁶/K | 20-100°C | More predictable | | **Thermal Conductivity** | 25.0 | W/(m·K) | At 20°C | More uniform | | **Specific Heat Capacity** | 460 | J/(kg·K) | At 20°C | Consistent | ## Mechanical Properties ### Standard Condition (1025°C Austenitize / 580°C×2 Temper) | Property | Value Range | Unit | Test Direction | ESR Advantage | |----------|-------------|------|---------------|---------------| | **Hardness** | 46-48 | HRC | All directions | **More uniform** | | **Tensile Strength** | 1500-1600 | MPa | Longitudinal | 5-10% improvement | | **Yield Strength (0.2%)** | 1350-1450 | MPa | Longitudinal | More consistent | | **Elongation** | 12-14 | % | Longitudinal | **Improved** | | **Impact Toughness (Charpy V)** | 45-55 | J | Transverse | **Significantly better** | | **Fatigue Strength** | 650-750 | MPa | All directions | **20-30% improvement** | ### Directional Property Comparison (ESR vs Conventional) | Property | Longitudinal (L) | Transverse (T) | L/T Ratio | Conventional L/T Ratio | |----------|-----------------|----------------|-----------|------------------------| | **Tensile Strength** | 100% | 98-99% | ~1.01 | ~1.05-1.10 | | **Yield Strength** | 100% | 97-99% | ~1.02 | ~1.08-1.15 | | **Impact Toughness** | 100% | 90-95% | ~1.05 | ~1.20-1.40 | | **Fatigue Limit** | 100% | 95-98% | ~1.02 | ~1.10-1.25 | ## Primary Applications ### A. Critical Die Casting Applications - **Large Die Casting Dies:** Where directional properties are critical - **Thin-Wall Casting Dies:** Requiring high polish and fatigue resistance - **Structural Components:** Engine blocks, transmission cases - **Safety-Critical Parts:** Automotive steering, braking components - **High-Pressure Die Casting:** Where reliability is paramount ### B. Precision Plastic Molding - **Optical Lenses:** Requiring exceptional surface finishes - **Medical Device Molds:** Where cleanliness and reliability are critical - **High-Gloss Surface Molds:** Automotive interiors, consumer electronics - **Hot Runner Systems:** Manifolds and nozzles ### C. High-Performance Forging - **Precision Forging Dies:** For aerospace components - **Die Inserts:** For critical forging applications - **Punches and Mandrels:** Where fatigue resistance is crucial ### D. Special Applications Requiring Isotropy - **Thread Rolling Dies** - **Extrusion Dies** for critical profiles - **Tools for Isothermal Forging** - **Glass Molding Tools** ## Processing Guidelines ### 1. Machining - **Annealed Condition:** 190-210 HB (optimal for machining) - **Machinability:** **Very good** (75-85% relative to 1% C-steel) - **ESR Advantage:** More consistent cutting forces, better surface finish - **Tool Materials:** HSS or carbide recommended - **Cutting Parameters:** Similar to standard 8407 but with improved consistency ### 2. Grinding and Polishing - **Grindability:** **Excellent** - responds well to grinding - **Polishing:** **Superior to conventional 8407** - Can achieve **Ra < 0.05 μm** with proper technique - More consistent results across large surfaces - Reduced risk of "orange peel" or other surface defects - **Wheel Selection:** Standard aluminum oxide or silicon carbide wheels - **ESR Advantage:** Reduced risk of pulling out inclusions during polishing ### 3. Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) - **Suitability:** **Excellent** - **Surface Finish:** Better as-edited surface compared to conventional grades - **White Layer:** Typically thinner and more consistent - **Post-EDM Treatment:** Standard stress relieving recommended ### 4. Welding - **Weldability:** **Good** - similar to standard 8407 - **ESR Advantage:** Reduced risk of weld defects due to cleaner base material - **Preheating:** 300-400°C (570-750°F) recommended - **Post-Weld:** Slow cool and re-temper ### 5. Surface Treatments - **Nitriding:** **Excellent response** - more consistent case depth - **PVD Coatings:** Superior adhesion due to cleaner surface - **Texturing:** More consistent results across large areas ## Quality Assurance ### ESR Process Advantages 1. **Improved Cleanliness:** Significantly reduced oxide and sulfide inclusions 2. **Reduced Segregation:** More uniform chemical composition 3. **Better Density:** Reduced microporosity 4. **Enhanced Homogeneity:** More consistent properties throughout ### Material Certification - **Full Chemical Analysis:** Including trace elements - **Microcleanliness Report:** Per ASTM E45 with digital image analysis - **Ultrasonic Testing:** 100% inspection standard - **Directional Property Data:** Available upon request - **ESR Process Certification:** Documentation of remelting parameters ### Available Forms | Form | Typical Sizes | ESR-Specific Advantages | |------|---------------|-------------------------| | **Large Blocks** | Up to 1000×1000×500 mm | Consistent properties throughout | | **Round Bars** | Ø100-500 mm | Excellent transverse properties | | **Forged Shapes** | Custom configurations | Uniform properties in complex shapes | | **Pre-machined Blanks** | Customer specifications | Reduced risk of internal defects | ## Comparative Performance ### vs. Conventional 8407 | Property | 8407 2M (ESR) | Conventional 8407 | Improvement | |----------|---------------|-------------------|-------------| | **Transverse Toughness** | 100% | 70-80% | **25-40% better** | | **Fatigue Life** | 100% | 70-80% | **25-40% better** | | **Polishability** | Excellent | Good-Very Good | **Significantly better** | | **Surface Finish** | Superior | Good | **Much better** | | **Internal Soundness** | Excellent | Good | **Substantially better** | | **Cost** | 120-150% | 100% | Premium | ### vs. Other ESR Hot Work Steels | Grade | Best For | Relative Cost | Key Distinction | |-------|----------|---------------|-----------------| | **8407 2M** | General premium applications | 100% | Balanced properties | | **H13 ESR** | Cost-sensitive premium needs | 90-95% | Similar but different chemistry | | **Special ESR Grades** | Specific applications | 120-200% | Custom optimized | ## Application Guidelines ### When to Select 8407 2M: 1. **Critical die casting applications** requiring maximum reliability 2. **Large dies** where directional properties are important 3. **Applications requiring exceptional surface finish** 4. **Components subject to high cyclic loading** 5. **Safety-critical applications** where failure is not an option 6. **When extended tool life** justifies premium material cost ### Economic Justification: - **Material Cost:** 20-50% premium over conventional 8407 - **Tool Life:** 30-100% improvement in demanding applications - **Reduced Scrap:** Better consistency reduces part rejection - **Maintenance Costs:** Less frequent polishing and repair - **Total Cost of Ownership:** Often favorable despite higher initial cost ### Design Considerations: 1. **Utilize isotropic properties** in design 2. **Can design more aggressive cooling channels** with reduced risk 3. **Thinner sections possible** due to better properties 4. **Reduced need for safety factors** in critical areas ## Technical Support ### Available Services: - **Material Selection Guidance:** When ESR is justified - **Heat Treatment Optimization:** For ESR-specific characteristics - **Application Engineering:** Design for isotropic properties - **Failure Analysis:** Specialized for ESR materials ### Documentation: - **ESR Process Certification** - **Directional Property Data** - **Application Case Studies** - **Processing Guidelines** specific to ESR material --- ## Special Notes on ESR Process ### The ESR Advantage: 1. **Process:** Electrode melted under protective slag layer 2. **Result:** Sequential solidification with refining action 3. **Benefits:** - Extremely low inclusion content - Excellent chemical homogeneity - Superior solidification structure - Reduced segregation ### Limitations: 1. **Cost:** Significant premium over conventional melting 2. **Availability:** Longer lead times possible 3. **Size Limitations:** Maximum dimensions constrained by ESR furnace size 4. **Application Specific:** Not justified for all applications ### Industry Acceptance: - **Widely accepted** for critical die casting applications - **Common in automotive** for safety-critical components - **Used in aerospace** for high-reliability tooling - **Growing adoption** in precision plastic molding --- **Disclaimer:** 8407 2M is a premium ESR material that requires proper application evaluation to justify its cost premium. Consult with Assab technical specialists to determine if the ESR advantages are justified for your specific application. Performance data based on typical ESR processing; actual results may vary. Always follow current technical documentation and safety guidelines. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Assab Steels 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <6856 mm Size:We can customized as required Standard： Per your request or drawing We can customized as required Properties（Theoretical） Chemical Composition -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Assab Steels 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Assab Steel Wires 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Assab Steel Wires 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Assab Steel Wires 8407 2M Hot Work Steel Wire -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Standard Packing: -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and Steel Wire drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 3327 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request. E FORUs’ is carefully handled to minimize damage during storage and transportation and to preserve the quality of our products in their original condition