Multi-functional KIc-test specimen for assessment of different tool and high-speed steel properties

Abstract

Depending on the differences in the balanced alloy composition and steel processing, properties of tool and high-speed steel can differ considerably among the same type of steel. However, properties of tool and high-speed steels depend also on the final vacuum-heat-treatment process. Recently, hardness and fracture toughness are used to determine the influence of vacuum-heat-treatment parameters and to optimize it for the specific operating conditions of the tool. However, there are also other tool properties which are equally important and need to be taken into consideration. Currently the best overall appraisal of tool and high-speed steel applicability seems to be a combination of fracture toughness, bending or compression testing and in specific cases of impact or small-punch creep test. The aim of the paper is to show the possibility of using a single KIc-test specimen for determination of such a wide range of properties being important for tool and high-speed steels.