What Is Powder Metallurgy Steel?
Powder metallurgy steel, otherwise known as powder steel or PM steel, is a fantastic alternative to conventional high-speed steels and tool steels. PM steels contain a higher amount of hard carbide particles than other options, allowing for stability after heat treatment and fantastic wear resistance properties.
The powder metallurgy steel process involves blending powdered materials before forming or shaping the steel, then heating the formed metal powder to produce the final product. As well as steel, the powder metallurgy process can also be used to create metal powders for a selection of other metals, including copper, nickel and brass.
Thanks to its versatility and properties, there is now a range of powder metallurgy tool steels available such as PM23, PM30, PM53 and PM60. Sheffield Gauge Plate is proud to be one of the leading suppliers of Powder Metallurgy in the UK thanks to our partnership with leading European and British manufacturers, as well as our years of experience in this market. We also offer other products and tool steel grades on request.
Our steel range includes waste recycling parts, machine knives, ground flat stock and more. With so many tool steel options to choose from, you can select the right product for any job. For more information, call (+44)114 233 5291 to talk to a member of our team.
B-PM 23 Powder Metallurgy High-Speed Steel
At Sheffield Gauge Plate, we supply B-PM 23 high-speed tool steel. B-PM 23 high-speed tool steel is a high alloyed powder metallurgical steel that is well-known for its high-quality wear resistance as well as its high compressive strength.
As such, this type of powder metallurgy steel is perfect for a range of cutting tools, saws, industrial knives, automotive use and any project that requires tools with high wear resistance.
Industrial Uses Of Powder Metallurgy Steel
Powder metallurgy steel is a perfect choice for many industries due to the fantastic wear-resistance properties it provides.
Powder Metallurgy Steel FAQs
-
Why Is Powder Steel Better Than Alternative Steel Alloy Options?
PM high-speed steel is renowned for its higher strength and cleaner finishes compared to other steels. Additionally, it has high-impact toughness and improved grindability. Thanks to its unique manufacturing process, powder metallurgy steels are better suited to a range of applications and require less maintenance.
-
How Is Powder Metallurgy Steel Made?
PM steel is created using a range of different processes, including hot isostatic pressing, chemical reduction, mechanical alloying, gas atomization, water atomization, and electrolysis, among others. The most common process used today is gas atomization, where a blend of natural gasses is used to create a perfectly uniform powder, which can be formed into a solid ingot and used to create a variety of tools and knives.
-
Is Powder Steel Good For Knives?
Some of the leading knife blade manufacturers recommend powder metallurgy steel for blades, as this material has a strong hardness, creating a knife that is resistant to chipping or dulling. It's also possible to make a blade that is thinner but still strong, allowing for enhanced precision when cutting. Also, powder metallurgy technology can produce higher alloy grades of steel than traditional steelmaking methods, making for a blade that has greater resistance to corrosion.
Make an enquiry
Complete our form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.