Pros and cons of taking high end steels to low RC.

[shinyedges]

Higher alloy steels in there ideal hardness range gain:

edge stability meaning less rolling , chipping, and deformation.

Toughness, impact resistance, lateral strength

And edge retention


Higher alloy steels NOT hardened to there optimal hardness range lose:

Lower edge stability meaning more deformation, rolling, and edge damage that could possibly all together be avoided if properly hardened.

Significantly lower edge retention

Depending on how low the hardness is it could adversely affect toughness, lateral and impact strength and more.


Steels like 4v and 3v for example DONT benefit from lower hardness, it actually detracts from the performance of the steel.

This is a rough overview but the point is certain high alloy particle steels DO NOT gain toughness or anything from having the hardness to low. Their are benefits to higher hardnesses IF the steel can maintain toughness and strength which modern high alloy particle steels do.

Exactly.

Soooo . . .

Per the question, what gains ( or losses ) happen when using the higher alloy steels at low hardness . . . ?

Thx.

 

[marthinus]

Higher alloy steels in there ideal hardness range gain:

edge stability meaning less rolling , chipping, and deformation.

Toughness, impact resistance, lateral strength

And edge retention


Higher alloy steels NOT hardened to there optimal hardness range lose:

Lower edge stability meaning more deformation, rolling, and edge damage that could possibly all together be avoided if properly hardened.

Significantly lower edge retention

Depending on how low the hardness is it could adversely affect toughness, lateral and impact strength and more.


Steels like 4v and 3v for example DONT benefit from lower hardness, it actually detracts from the performance of the steel.

This is a rough overview but the point is certain high alloy particle steels DO NOT gain toughness or anything from having the hardness to low. Their are benefits to higher hardnesses IF the steel can maintain toughness and strength which modern high alloy particle steels do.

Throw in high alloy corrosion resistant steels and it becomes even more complicated with regards to what properties a maker wants at a good hardness.