High-speed steel is named for its resistance to softening at elevated temperatures, which enables it to cut through materials at higher speeds compared to plain carbon steels. It is composed of iron along with specific elements such as tungsten (T series) or molybdenum (M series), along with carbon, chromium, vanadium, and occasionally tungsten or cobalt. This alloy composition is carefully balanced to provide qualities such as high hardness, wear resistance, and the ability to maintain its strength even when exposed to high temperatures. Additionally, high-speed steel possesses toughness, making it an ideal choice for various industrial cutting tasks. In essence, its unique ability to resist softening at high temperatures makes it excel in high-speed cutting applications.
See ASTM A600
