Stainless Mold Steel Exceeds Toughness, Corrosion and Wear Resistance

Uddeholm USA features its next-generation Tyrax ESR stainless steel mold designed for a pressure ESR (P-ESR) manufacturing process that enables longer tool life, and faster polishing for reliable production of high-performance plastic parts. With a hardness capability of 58 HRC, the company says its product is the best in its class for toughness, corrosion and wear resistance. 

For further emphasis, Uddeholm compares Tyrax ESR with other steel types. For example, compared to AISI H13 ESR + Ni or Cr plating, Tyrax ESR maintains a higher carbon content and achievable hardness, provides protection for cooling channels and does not need plating to have corrosion resistance which saves cost in manufacturing and maintenance. Further, in terms of cracking resistance, Tyrax ESR compared to H13 ESR will be similar in ductility at similar hardness.

Compared to AISI 420 ESR and 440C, Tyrax has a higher hardness. While it has a lower abrasive wear resistance, the wear is more consistent and uniform. A higher cracking resistance than 420 ESR and 440 C ensure safer use in larger cross-sections. Corrosion resistance is also improved. 

Finally, compared to Mold Quality S7, Udderholm’s Tyrax ESR maintains similar or better wear resistance due to the presence of fine chromium carbides. Gate areas and parting lines have improved surface retention.The toughness at 56-58 HRC is said to far exceed that of the typical S7 at 54-56 HRC, and compressive strength will be higher with Tyrax ESR at higher hardness, increasing parting line durability.