2007.05.11 - Hard Mould Steel's Good Structure Allows Efficient Machining - Uddeholm Nimax article, European Tool & Mould Making, May issue
The Uddeholm Nimax tool steel grade for plastics moulding, which is supplied by Uddeholm Tooling AB, is designed to provide several key benefits for mould makers. First of all, this reliable material offers very good machinability, which leads ultimately to productivity and business advantages. Shorter machining times make it easier to meet customers’ delivery requirements, to lower cutting-tool costs, and to increase the availability of machines for additional projects.
Nimax accommodates instant welding; no preheating or post–heat treatment is required. Weld repairs, maintenance, and design changes can be completed more quickly, thus minimizing downtime during mould manufacturing and production. Combining high hardness with toughness, the new grade is very resistant to indentation and structural failure. Tool performance is therefore consistent and tool life prolonged.
The good structure and minimal inclusions that characterize Uddeholm Nimax make it possible for machinists to achieve the desired surface finish in remarkably little time. In fact, switching to this type of tool steel might well make better surface finishes more attainable while at the same time reducing polishing costs.
