What is EN ISO 4957:2018?

Introduction

EN ISO 4957:2018 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for tool steels. Tool steels are widely used in various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace, for their exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. This article aims to provide an of the standard, its significance, and its impact on the industry.

Key features of EN ISO 4957:2018

The standard defines a set of chemical composition requirements, mechanical properties, and testing methods for different types of tool steels. It classifies tool steels into several categories based on their main alloying elements, such as carbon, chromium, and vanadium.

EN ISO 4957:2018 also specifies the heat treatment processes, including annealing, quenching, tempering, and hardening, along with the recommended cooling rates and temperatures. These guidelines ensure that the tool steels achieve the desired hardness, strength, and machinability.

In addition, the standard outlines the quality requirements for tool steels, including surface defects, dimensional tolerances, and non-metallic inclusions. Adhering to these specifications ensures the reliability and performance of tool steels in various applications.

Benefits and applications

Complying with EN ISO 4957:2018 offers numerous benefits to manufacturers and end-users. Firstly, the standard provides a common basis for design, production, and quality control of tool steels, facilitating international trade and collaboration. It guarantees that the tool steels meet the necessary standards across different countries and markets.

Moreover, using EN ISO 4957:2018-compliant tool steels offers improved tool life, increased productivity, and enhanced product quality. The standardized chemical composition and heat treatment processes result in consistent performance and reliability, reducing the risk of premature failure or production defects.

Tool steels meeting EN ISO 4957:2018 can be applied in various cutting, forming, and molding applications. They are commonly used for manufacturing metal parts, dies, molds, and cutting tools. The high wear resistance and toughness make these steels suitable for demanding operations, such as shaping, shearing, and forging.

Conclusion

EN ISO 4957:2018 plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of tool steels. It provides clear guidelines for the chemical composition, mechanical properties, heat treatment, and quality requirements of tool steels. Compliance with this standard allows manufacturers and end-users to benefit from improved performance, productivity, and product quality. Whether in automotive, aerospace, or general manufacturing industries, EN ISO 4957:2018-compliant tool steels are essential for achieving success and maintaining competitiveness.