Tool Steel

We are one of the leading tool steel stockists in the UK. We primarily supply 01 tool steel/O1 tool steel, but we are also one of the most reliable silver steel and D2 tool steel suppliers in the UK.

Tool steel is made up of alloy and carbon steels. With a carbon content between 0.5% and 1.5%, it is manufactured under controlled conditions to produce the required quality. It possesses hardness and resistance to abrasion.

Tool Steel FAQs

What is tool steel?

As previously mentioned, tool steel is a composition of alloy and carbon steels, and its properties make it ideal for use in the manufacturing of tools.

How is tool steel made?

Most tool steel production is achieved via electric arc furnace (EAF) melting. Around 75% of the material being melted is scrap metal, and it’s vital that this doesn’t come into contact with metals that can’t be oxidised, including copper, cobalt, and nickel.

What is tool steel used for?

As the name suggests, tool steel is most commonly used to make other products for machining, punching, stamping, and cutting. In order to form these products, the tool steel is typically supplied in a soft, annealed conditions before its machined into products and heat treated for hardness.

Can you weld tool steel?

Technically, tool steel can be welded; however, it’s not a straightforward process. If you attempt to weld tool steel at room temperature, you run the risk of the metal cracking. As a result, before the welding of tool steel can take place, the mould or die will typically need to be preheated.

How do you drill tool steel?

If you want to avoid damage to the metal, knowing how to drill tool steel correctly is essential. When drilling tool steel, you should use a metal-specific drill bit at as slow a speed as possible.

How do you cut tool steel?

Similarly, knowing how to cut tool steel is vital in maintaining safe practice. In order to cut this metal, you can use the original metal-cutting tool, otherwise known as the manual hacksaw.

Shop Tool Steel at Rapid Metals

Each online tool steel UK price is calculated individually for convenience.

As one of the leading tool suppliers, we can source many other specifications, so if you can’t find what you’re looking for online, contact us.

Being premier 01 tool steel suppliers in the UK, we offer a fully flexible service. Call us on 02475 095 911 if you require a smaller/larger quantity than is available online.