---

Carbon		0.78 - 1.05
Chromium		3.75 - 4.5
Iron		Balance
Manganese		0.15 - 0.4
Molybdenum		4.5 - 5.5
Phosphorus		0.03 max
Silicon		0.2 - 0.45
Sulphur		0.03 max
Tungsten		5.5 - 6.75
Vanadium		1.75 - 2.2

Principal Design Features		M2 is a higher carbon version of the M1 tool steel (Molybdenum High Speed Tool Steel). The M2 alloy has somewhat better wear resistance than M1.

Applications		Primarily used for cutting tools.

Machinability		M2 is classified as a "medium" machinability tool steel in the annealed condition. It may be shaped by grinding but is relatively poor in regard to capability of being ground. Its machinability rating is 50% as compared to the W group water hardening tool steels which are relatively easily machined.

Forming		Formed by machining or forging and then machining.

Welding		Consult the alloy supplier for information on the advisability of welding.

Heat Treatment		Preheat at 1450 F before heating for hardening. Then heat rapidly from 1450 F to 2200 F and hold for 3 to 5 minutes followed by quenching in oil, air or salt bath.

Forging		Forge at 2050 F down to 1700 F. Do Not forge below 1700 F.

Hot Working		See "Forging" and consult the supplier for information on working at lower temperatures.

Cold Working		Cold working may be accomplished with the alloy in the annealed condition.

Annealing		Anneal at 1625 F and slow furnace cool at 40 F per hour, or less.

Aging		Not applicable to this alloy.

Tempering		Temper at 1050 F for a hardness of Rockwell C 60 to 65.

Hardening		Hardens by heat treatment and quenching. See "Heat Treatment" and "Tempering".

Physical Data : [top]

Density (lb / cu. in.)	0.295
Specific Gravity	8.16
Melting Point (Deg F)	2600
Modulus of Elasticity Tension	28

MSO currently has no data available for this grade.