Hot hardness characteristics of ausformed AISI M-50, Matrix 2, WD-65, modified AISI 440-C, and Super Nitralloy

Short-term hot hardness studies were performed with ausformed AISI M-50, Matrix 2, WD-65, modified AISI 440-C (14-4-1) and case hardened Super Nitralloy. Hardness levels of each material were measured at elevated temperatures in an electric furnace with a low oxygen environment. Test temperatures ranged from 294 to 877 K. The hot hardness characteristics of the ausformed AISI-M-50, Matrix 2 WD-65, and modified AISI 440-C were the same as those determined for high-speed tool steels. Hot hardness for these steels can be predicted within one point Rockwell C. The hot hardness characteristics of both the case and core of Super Nitralloy were superior to AISI 52100 but inferior to the high-speed tool steels. The short-term Rockwell C hardness at temperature for the Super Nitralloy material between 294 and 769 K can be predicted within one point Rockwell C hardness.