High-speed steel, commonly referred to as HSS, is a tool steel with widespread applications across numerous industries. HSS is an alloy that is commonly used for making cutting tools like end mills, drill bits, and gear cutters.

HSS gains its properties when different alloying materials are added to carbon steel. Before the development of HSS, high-carbon steel was used for manufacturing cutting tools. 

One of the significant features of HSS that makes it better than high-carbon steel is the fact that it can cut at a higher speed, thus getting its name, even in higher temperatures. 

Following are the two types of HSS

Molybdenum HSS

These steels are also referred to as Group M and are one of the most-used used steels across industries. The lower initial cost in the development of MHSS makes it a popular choice for the manufacturing of cutting tools. 

Cobalt HSS

For manufacturing cutting tools that require increased hardness and heat resistance, tool manufacturers rely on CHSS. As the name suggests, cobalt HSS is developed by adding 5 to 8 percent of cobalt along with alloying materials and carbon steel. M35 and M42 are the two most common types of Cobalt HSS. 

Following are some features of high-quality HSS

• Superior to older high-carbon steel 
• Ability to withstand higher temperatures
• Enables faster cutting offering maximum productivity
• Higher resistance to abrasion
   

The use of HSS in CNC milling machines makes it popular among metal fabrication companies. Cast iron cutting and woodturning are other applications for which you can rely on HSS. Knives, chisels, and other handheld tools are made using HSS for achieving precise results.

High-speed steel can be recycled, making it more cost-effective and eco-friendly. You can rely on Alnor industries, a family-based business, for recycling HSS and beryllium copper among other metals and alloys. Contact us today to learn about our services.