Meaning
Alteration of the chemical composition or the surface properties of a mould block to enhance its performance. Tool steel modification includes processes like nitriding, plating or the addition of specific alloying elements during the smelting process. These changes aim to improve the hardness, corrosion resistance or lubricity of the cavity.
Surface Treatment
Applying a thin layer of chrome or nickel can protect the steel from the corrosive gases released by resins like PVC. Tool steel modification through nitriding creates a very hard surface layer that resists wear from glass-filled materials. These treatments are applied after the final machining is complete.
Heat Treatment
Quenching and tempering the block changes its crystalline structure to achieve a specific hardness. Tool steel modification through heat treatment must be carefully controlled to avoid cracking the block. The resulting hardness determines how well the tool will stand up to the millions of cycles in a high-volume run.
Performance Matching
Choosing the right steel and its subsequent modifications is a balance between cost and tool life. A simple P20 steel might be modified with a coating for a short run, while a high-chrome steel is used for long-term production. The choice of tool steel modification directly impacts the maintenance schedule and the overall cost per part.
Selecting the correct modification prevents premature cavity erosion.
