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Carbon		0.77 - 0.85
Chromium		3.75 - 4.25
Cobalt		0.25 max
Copper		0.1 max
Iron		Balance
Manganese		0.35 max
Molybdenum		4 - 4.5
Nickel		0.15 max
Phosphorus		0.015 max
Silicon		0.25 max
Sulphur		0.015 max
Tungsten		0.25 max
Vanadium		0.9 - 1.1

Principal Design Features		Commonly produced by VIM - VAR methods, this M50 is an intermediate high speed, molybdenum type tool steel.

Applications		Most often employed in tooling applications where abrasion resistance is less important, such as woodworking tools and commercial twist drills. In its VIM/VAR form, M50 has become useful in the bearing and missile industry for high wear resistance and strength at high temperatures.

Machinability		This alloy is best machined in the annealed condition. It is rated at 65 % of a 1% carbon steel, or 50% of a B1112.

Forming		Not applicable

Heat Treatment		See annealing, tempering and hardening.

Forging		Preheat to 1500 F and soak thoroughly. Then increase temperature to 2000 F prior to working. Do not forge below 1800 F.

Annealing		Heat to 1600 F and furnace cool slowly. M50 is extremely susceptible to decarburization and must be protected during any thermal treatment.

Tempering		Tempering should immediately follow quenching. For best performance, double temper at 1025 F.

Hardening		For optimum performance and stability, preheat work to 1500 F until soaked, then superheat to 2000 F only long enough for the work to reach furnace temperature and quench immediately. Cool the work to -100 F and soak for 1 hour.

Physical Data : [top]

Density (lb / cu. in.)	0.283

MSO currently has no data available for this grade.