K490 is a high-performance cold-work tool steel produced using third-generation powder metallurgy (PM) technology. It is designed to deliver superior wear resistance and toughness compared to conventional tool steels like D2, SKD11, and 1.2379, while maintaining the same standard quenching temperature range of 1030–1080°C. This unique combination allows K490 to be processed in existing vacuum furnaces without parameter adjustments, making it an exceptionally cost-effective upgrade for tool and die manufacturers.
Product Specifications & Physical DataK490 is a high-carbon, high-alloy tool steel alloyed with chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and tungsten. The powder metallurgy manufacturing process ensures a fine, homogeneous carbide distribution, providing an excellent balance of wear resistance, toughness, and machinability. Available Forms: Round bar, flat bar, plate, and custom shapes Condition: Soft-annealed (≤280 HB / ≤29.5 HRC) for optimal machinability
| Chemical Composition (Weight %) | K490 Specification |
|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.40 | | Vanadium (V) | 3.70 | | Chromium (Cr) | 6.40 | | Tungsten (W) | 3.50 | | Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.50 | | Cobalt (Co) | 2.0 max. |
| Physical & Mechanical Properties | Value |
|---|
| Quenched & Tempered Hardness | 58 – 64 HRC | | Abrasion Resistance | High | | Toughness | High (>2× D2) | | Dimensional Stability | Excellent | | Annealed Hardness | ≤ 280 HB (≈ ≤29.5 HRC) |
Key Advantages & Material ComparisonK490 offers significant performance improvements over conventional cold-work tool steels: | Property | K490 | D2 / SKD11 / 1.2379 |
|---|
| Wear Resistance | Significantly superior | Standard | | Toughness | >2× higher | Baseline | | Quenching Temperature | 1030-1080°C (same) | 1030-1080°C | | Machinability (annealed) | Easier than K390 | Standard | | Carbide Distribution | Homogeneous (PM) | Segregated (ingot) |
Heat Treatment & Fabrication GuidelinesQuenching Temperature Selection | Temperature | Characteristics | Applications |
|---|
| 1030-1040°C (Low) | Superior toughness | Complex geometries, impact loading | | 1060-1080°C (High) | Superior wear resistance | Pure abrasive wear applications |
Tempering Requirements | Requirement | Detail |
|---|
| Minimum Tempering Cycles | 3 times | | Prohibited Range | 150-300°C (causes tempered martensite embrittlement) |
Process Sequence: | Step | Details |
|---|
| 1. Machining | Performed in annealed state (≤280 HB); less tool wear than K390 | | 2. Stress Relief | After rough machining | | 3. Quenching | 1030-1080°C; compatible with D2 heat treatment cycles | | 4. Deep Cryogenic Treatment | -80°C to -150°C after quenching, before first tempering | | 5. Tempering | Minimum 3 cycles; avoid 150-300°C range | | 6. Surface Treatment | PVD, CVD, salt bath nitriding, gas nitriding compatible |
ApplicationsStamping Dies: Cutting of thin, hard, or thick materials requiring balance between wear resistance and chipping resistance Forming Dies: Bending, stretching, and deep drawing operations requiring high compressive strength Fine Blanking Dies: Precision blanking requiring dimensional stability and excellent edge retention Powder Compaction Dies: Dies for tablets and ceramics requiring high wear resistance and high surface finish Cold Extrusion Dies: Cold extrusion operations involving moderate loads
For inquiries, technical datasheets, or a competitive quote, please contact our sales team with your application details: Mold Type: Stamping, forming, fine blanking, powder compaction, or cold extrusion? Specifications: Dimensions and tolerances required Order Quantity: Trial or production volume?
We are ready to support your tooling project with certified K490 cold work tool steel bar. Contact Us 📧 Email: daisy@zytcsteel.com
📲 WhatsApp: +86 17335753350 |
