Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4)

1,We Manufacturing processes are primarily classified into four types: 1:Forging, 2:Casting, 3:Cutting, 4:Rolling. 2,We can manufacture in accordance with these standards. Standards: GB Series (Chinese Standards), JB Series (Machinery Standards), HG Series (Chemical Industry Standards), ASME B16.5 (American Standards), BS4504 (British Standards), DIN (German Standards), and JIS (Japanese Standards). Internationally, there are two primary systems of pipe flange standards: the European system, represented by the German DIN standards (including those of the former Soviet Union), and the American system, represented by the US ANSI pipe flange standards. Other common standards include: the Chinese Ministry of Machinery Industry standards (JB series), the Ministry of Chemical Industry standards (HG series), the Chinese National Standard *GB/T 9112–9124-2010 Steel Pipe Flanges*, as well as US standards (ASME B16.5), British standards (BS4504), German standards (DIN), Japanese standards (JIS), and marine standards (CBM), among others. The nominal pressure ratings for the PN series are designated by "PN" and comprise the following nine levels: PN2.5, PN6, PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN63, PN100, and PN160. The nominal pressure ratings for the Class series are designated by "Class" and comprise the following six levels: Class150, Class300, Class600, Class900, Class1500, and Class2500. Flange Classification 1. **According to Chemical Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Plate Flat Welding Flange (PL), Necked Flat Welding Flange (SO), Necked Butt Welding Flange (WN), Integral Flange (IF), Socket Welding Flange (SW), Threaded Flange (Th), Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange (PJ/SE), Blind Flange (BL), Flat Welding Ring Loose Flange (PJ/PJ), and Lined Blind Flange (BL(s)). 2. **According to Petrochemical (SH) Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Threaded Flange (PL), Butt Welding Flange (WN), Flat Welding Flange (SO), Socket Welding Flange (SW), Loose Flange (LJ), and Blind Flange (no specific designation). 3. **According to Machinery (JB) Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Integral Flange, Butt Welding Flange, Plate Flat Welding Flange, Butt Welding Ring Plate Loose Flange, Flat Welding Ring Plate Loose Flange, Lap Joint Ring Plate Loose Flange, and Blind Flange. 4. **According to Connection Method/Type:** Flanges are classified as follows: Plate Flat Welding Flange, Necked Flat Welding Flange, Necked Butt Welding Flange, Socket Welding Flange, Threaded Flange, Blind Flange, Necked Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange, Flat Welding Ring Loose Flange, Ring-Type Joint (RTJ) Flange and Blind Flange, Large-Diameter Plate Flange, Large-Diameter High-Neck Flange, Figure-8 Blind Plate, Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange, etc. 5. **According to the Component Being Connected:** Flanges can be classified into Vessel Flanges and Pipe Flanges. 6. **According to Structural Type:** Flanges include Integral Flanges, Threaded Flanges, Flat Welding Flanges, Butt Welding Flanges, Lap Joint (Loose/Swivel) Flanges, and Blind Flanges. A flange—also referred to as a flange plate or rim—is a component used to connect shafts to one another, or, more commonly, to join the ends of pipes. Flanges are also utilized at the inlet and outlet ports of equipment to facilitate connections between two devices—for instance, the flange on a speed reducer. A "flange connection" or "flanged joint" refers to a detachable joint assembly comprising three interconnected elements—a flange, a gasket, and bolts—that together form a sealed structural unit. In the context of piping systems, a "pipe flange" specifically denotes a flange used for plumbing within the installation; when applied to equipment, it refers to the inlet or outlet flange of that specific device. Flanges feature a series of holes through which bolts are inserted to securely fasten the two flanges together, while a gasket placed between the flanges ensures a leak-proof seal. Flanges are broadly categorized into three types: threaded (screw-in) flanges, welded flanges, and clamp-type flanges. Flanges are invariably used in pairs; threaded flanges are suitable for low-pressure piping applications, whereas welded flanges are required for systems operating at pressures exceeding 4 kilograms per square centimeter. A sealing gasket is inserted between the two flange plates, which are then firmly secured using bolts. The thickness of a flange—as well as the specifications of the bolts used to fasten it—vary depending on the specific pressure rating required for the application. When connecting equipment such as water pumps or valves to piping systems, the corresponding connection points on these devices are often manufactured in the shape of a matching flange; this method of attachment is also referred to as a "flange connection." Generally, any connecting component that utilizes bolts to join and seal the perimeters of two flat surfaces—such as the joints in ventilation ducts—is termed a "flange"; such components may collectively be classified as "flange-type parts." However, since such a connection often constitutes merely a *portion* of a larger device—for instance, the interface between a flange and a water pump—it would be inappropriate to classify the entire water pump itself as a "flange-type part." Conversely, smaller components—such as valves—that feature such flanged interfaces may indeed be appropriately categorized as "flange-type parts." -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4) Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4) Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Red-Wear® (AISI M4) Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # **Technical Datasheet: Carpenter Four Star® High Speed Steel Red-Wear® (AISI M4)** --- ## **1. Product Overview** **Carpenter Four Star® Red-Wear® (AISI M4)** is a premium-grade, **high-carbon, high-vanadium molybdenum-tungsten high-speed steel (HSS)** produced using Carpenter's proprietary manufacturing processes. This grade represents a specialized variant within the AISI M4 family, engineered to deliver **exceptional performance under severe abrasive wear conditions while maintaining excellent hot hardness (red-hardness)**. The "Red-Wear®" designation specifically highlights its dual capabilities: resistance to **softening at high temperatures (Red)** and resistance to **abrasive material loss (Wear)**. As part of Carpenter's "Four Star" line, this steel benefits from enhanced metallurgical control, resulting in **superior carbide distribution, consistent performance, and improved grindability** compared to standard M4. It is specifically formulated for applications where extreme wear is the primary failure mechanism, particularly in machining tough, abrasive, and high-temperature alloys. --- ## **2. Key International Standards & Designations** | Country/System | Standard Designation | Equivalent/Specification | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **USA (Carpenter)** | **Four Star® Red-Wear®** | Proprietary High-Performance M4 | | **USA (AISI/SAE)** | **AISI M4** (Enhanced) | UNS T11304 | | **USA (ASTM)** | **ASTM A600** | Grade M4 | | **ISO** | **ISO 4957:2018** | **HS2-9-2 / 1.3348** | | **Europe (EN)** | **EN ISO 4957:2018** | **1.3348** | | **Germany (DIN/W-Nr.)** | **1.3348** | S 2-9-2 | | **Japan (JIS)** | **JIS G4403** | **SKH54** (Nearest equivalent) | | **Common Names** | High-Vanadium HSS, Super M4 | - | --- ## **3. Chemical Composition (Typical %)** The composition is optimized for maximum wear resistance through high vanadium content, while balanced for hot hardness and toughness. | Element | Weight % (Typical) | Metallurgical Significance | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Carbon (C)** | 1.25 - 1.40 | High carbon content ensures adequate carbon for matrix hardening and vanadium carbide (VC) formation. Critical for achieving high hardness and wear resistance. | | **Tungsten (W)** | 5.50 - 6.00 | Provides solid solution strengthening and contributes significantly to **hot hardness (red-hardness)**. Forms stable tungsten carbides. | | **Molybdenum (Mo)** | 4.50 - 5.00 | Primary element for hardenability and hot hardness. More cost-effective than tungsten while providing similar benefits. Enhances secondary hardening response. | | **Chromium (Cr)** | 3.75 - 4.50 | Provides hardenability, wear resistance (forms M₇C₃ carbides), and moderate oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures. | | **Vanadium (V)** | **3.75 - 4.50** | **The defining element for wear resistance.** Forms extremely hard **(~2800-3000 HV) vanadium carbides (MC type)** that provide exceptional resistance to abrasive wear. Higher than standard M4. | | **Cobalt (Co)** | **0.50 - 1.00** (may be present) | Optional addition in enhanced grades to further increase **hot hardness and tempering resistance**, elevating performance in high-temperature cutting. | | **Silicon (Si)** | 0.20 - 0.45 | Deoxidizer and strengthens the matrix. | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.15 - 0.40 | Aids hardenability and acts as a deoxidizer. | **Key Metallurgical Features:** - **High Vanadium Carbide Volume:** Provides **superior abrasive wear resistance** compared to standard M2 and M3 class HSS. - **Balanced Hot Hardness:** The combination of W, Mo, and optional Co ensures hardness is maintained at cutting temperatures up to **540-600°C (1000-1110°F)**. - **Carpenter's Enhanced Quality:** Features more uniform carbide distribution and finer grain structure than conventional M4, improving toughness and grindability. --- ## **4. Physical & Mechanical Properties** ### **4.1 Standard Heat Treatment** * **Annealing:** Heat to 850-870°C (1560-1600°F), slow cool. Annealed hardness: **~240-260 HB**. * **Preheating:** **Critical.** Double preheat at 650°C (1200°F) and 850°C (1560°F). * **Austenitizing:** **1190-1220°C (2175-2230°F).** Precise temperature control is essential. Salt or vacuum furnace recommended. * **Quenching:** **Oil or salt bath.** For maximum hardness and minimal distortion, high-pressure gas quenching in vacuum furnaces is ideal. * **Tempering:** **Triple tempering mandatory.** Temper at **540-570°C (1000-1060°F)** for 2+ hours each, cooling to room temperature between cycles. * **Cryogenic Treatment:** Highly recommended between quenching and tempering to maximize transformation of retained austenite. * **Expected Hardness:** **64-66 HRC** (up to 66-67 HRC with optimal treatment). ### **4.2 Mechanical Properties (Hardened & Triple Tempered)** | Property | Value / Rating | Performance Notes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Hardness** | **64 - 66 HRC** | High base hardness for maximum wear resistance. | | **Hot Hardness (at 600°C/1112°F)** | **~58-61 HRC** | Excellent red-hardness; maintains cutting edge at high temperatures. | | **Transverse Rupture Strength (TRS)** | **3,000 - 3,600 MPa** | Good toughness for a high-vanadium HSS; better than conventional M4 due to improved microstructure. | | **Compressive Strength** | ~ 3,500 - 4,100 MPa | Extremely high, suitable for heavy machining loads. | | **Abrasive Wear Resistance** | **Outstanding** | Among the best of conventional HSS grades, exceeded only by premium powder metallurgy (PM) grades like T15. | | **Grindability** | **Fair to Good (for M4)** | **Superior to standard M4** due to Carpenter's refined carbide structure. | | **Toughness** | Moderate | Lower than M2 or M7, but adequate for most demanding cutting applications. | ### **4.3 Physical Properties (Approximate)** * Density: 8.10 g/cm³ * Thermal Conductivity: ~23 W/m·K (Low) * Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 11.0 x 10⁻⁶/K (20-500°C) * Modulus of Elasticity: 220 GPa --- ## **5. Typical Product Applications** Four Star® Red-Wear® is designed for **severe-service cutting applications** involving highly abrasive and high-strength materials. * **High-Performance Cutting Tools:** * **End Mills & Drills:** For machining **titanium alloys, Inconel, Waspaloy, hardened steels (45-65 HRC), stainless steels, and abrasive composites.** * **Gear Hobs & Shaper Cutters:** For dry or high-speed gear machining of tough materials. * **Broaches, Reamers & Form Tools:** Requiring high precision and long life in abrasive conditions. * **Inserts & Tool Bits:** For turning superalloys where extreme edge wear is a problem. * **Severe Wear Parts:** * **Cold Work Dies** for extremely abrasive non-metallic materials (e.g., fiberglass, graphite). * **Thread Rolling Dies** for hard or abrasive workpieces. * **Slitter Knives & Rotary Cutters** for advanced materials. --- ## **6. Processing & Manufacturing Guidelines** * **Machinability (Annealed):** **Poor.** The uniform hardness and hard vanadium carbides make machining difficult. Requires premium carbide or CBN tooling, rigid setups, and conservative parameters. * **Grindability:** **Fair to Good.** A key advantage over standard M4. Use **CBN or aluminum oxide wheels** specifically formulated for high-vanadium HSS. Proper wheel dressing and coolant are essential. * **EDM Machining:** Excellent method for complex shapes. The homogeneous structure yields consistent results. Post-EDM stress relief (180-200°C) is recommended for critical tools. * **Surface Treatments/Coatings:** An excellent substrate for advanced **PVD coatings (TiAlN, AlCrN, AlTiN)**. The high base hardness and thermal stability allow coatings to perform optimally. --- ## **7. Comparative Performance & Selection Notes** | Criterion | **Four Star® Red-Wear® M4** | **Standard AISI M4** | **AISI M2** | **Cobalt HSS (M35/M42)** | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Wear Resistance** | **Best** | Very Good | Good | Good | | **Hot Hardness** | Excellent | Excellent | Good | **Best** | | **Toughness** | Moderate | Moderate | **Better** | Fair | | **Grindability** | **Better** | Poor | Good | Good | | **Optimal Application** | **Abrasive, High-Temp Alloys** | General Severe Service | General Purpose | **High-Speed, High-Temp** | **Why Choose Carpenter Four Star® Red-Wear® M4?** 1. **Primary failure mode is abrasive flank or crater wear** in machining. 2. Machining materials that are **both tough and abrasive** (e.g., titanium, Inconel, hardened steels). 3. You need **better performance than M2/M7** but find **cobalt HSS (M35/M42) too brittle or expensive**. 4. You require the **enhanced consistency, grindability, and performance predictability** of Carpenter's premium product. **Limitations:** - **Lower toughness** than M2 or general-purpose HSS grades. - **Higher cost** than standard M-series HSS. - **Complex heat treatment** required for optimal performance. --- ## **8. Important Design & Handling Notes** 1. **Heat Treatment Precision:** Success depends on **exact temperature control during austenitizing and triple tempering**. Use calibrated equipment. 2. **Tool Design:** Optimize geometry for **free cutting** to reduce heat and stress. Strong, positive rake angles are beneficial. 3. **Application Speed:** Designed for **moderate to high cutting speeds** where its hot hardness is an advantage. Not optimal for low-speed, high-shock applications. 4. **Corrosion Resistance:** Limited; tools should be protected during storage. --- ## **9. Conclusion** **Carpenter Four Star® Red-Wear® High Speed Steel represents a specialized, high-performance evolution of the AISI M4 grade, engineered to excel where extreme abrasive wear meets high-temperature cutting conditions.** It delivers: - **Exceptional abrasive wear resistance** through high vanadium carbide content. - **Reliable hot hardness** for sustained performance in demanding cuts. - **Enhanced manufacturability and consistency** thanks to Carpenter's proprietary processing. This steel is the **strategic choice for machining the most challenging aerospace, energy, and die & mold materials**—where tool life and process reliability are paramount, and the total cost of non-performance outweighs material cost. For applications that demand the wear resistance of high-vanadium HSS without stepping up to ultra-premium cobalt grades or powder metallurgy steels, **Four Star® Red-Wear® M4 provides an optimal balance of performance, reliability, and value.** --- -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Red-Wear® (AISI M4) Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <5228 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. -: Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Red-Wear® (AISI M4) Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4) -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4) -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Carpenter Four Star High Speed Steel Flange Red-Wear® (AISI M4) -:- 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 Flange 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 1699 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