SteelWhat is M2 steel and what is it used for? High-speed steel (HSS)
M2 steel is a high-speed steel (HSS). In this guide we explain what M2 steel is, its chemical composition, hardness, how it is heat treated, what it is used for and the sizes we stock.
What is M2 steel?
Molybdenum-tungsten high-speed steel (HSS), the most versatile of its kind. Retains its hardness and edge at the high temperatures of high-speed cutting. For high-performance cutting tools.
Chemical composition of M2 steel
This is the typical composition of M2 steel (AISI M2 / EN-DIN 1.3343 / JIS SKH51 standard):
| Element | Contents | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.78 – 0.88 % | Hardness and wear resistance |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20 – 0.45 % | Deoxidizer |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.15 – 0.40 % | Hardenability |
| Chromium (Cr) | 3.75 – 4.50 % | Hardenability and wear resistance |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 4.50 – 5.50 % | Hot hardness and hardenability |
| Tungsten (W) | 5.50 – 6.75 % | Forms very hard carbides (cutting and wear) |
| Vanadium (V) | 1.75 – 2.20 % | Refines the grain and forms hard carbides |
| Phosphorus (P) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
| Sulfur (S) | 0.030 % max. | Impurity, kept low |
Hardness and heat treatment of M2 steel
The typical working hardness of M2 is 62 – 65 HRC. It is a high-speed steel: it requires high-temperature quenching and several temperings. Its great virtue is red hardness, that is, it keeps its edge and hardness even at the high temperatures of high-speed cutting. You can see the full overview in our article on heat treatments for steel, and hardness scales in steel hardness.
What is it for? Applications of M2
M2 steel is mainly used in:
- High-speed drill bits
- Taps for threading
- Milling cutters
- Precision reamers
- Cutting broaches
- Gear cutters
- Industrial knives
- Lathe tools
- Band saw blades
Forms and sizes we carry
At NAT MAC we stock M2 steel in these forms and sizes:
| Package size | Sizes |
|---|---|
| Round bars | Ø 1/4" – 3" (Ø 6 – 76 mm) |
| Plates | 1/8" – 4" (3 – 102 mm) |
If you need a particular size, tell us which one and we will gladly source it for you.
M2 equivalents and standards
M2 steel is also identified by these standards: AISI M2 / EN-DIN 1.3343 / JIS SKH51. You can see how to read them in our article on steel standards.
In summary
- M2 is a high-speed steel (HSS)
- Typical composition: C 0.78 – 0.88 and Cr 3.75 – 4.50, plus alloying elements
- Typical working hardness: 62 – 65 HRC
- Ideal for high-performance cutting tools
- We carry it in round bar (1/4" – 3") and plates (1/8" – 4"), cut to size
Why buy your M2 steel at NAT MAC?
We have more than 54 years of experience as an industrial supplier and ISO 9001 certified quality. We carry a wide range of tool grade steels and help you choose the right one for your tool or mold.
- Quality M2 Steel, backed and traceable
- Material cut to the size you need
- Technical advice on choosing the right grade
- Wide range of tool-grade steels in stock
- On-time deliveries and competitive prices
Tell us what tool or mold you are going to make and in what dimensions, and we will recommend the right grade and form. Request your free quote.
Sources: data sheet from our NAT MAC catalog (composition, sizes and applications) and public industry references for working hardness. Values are for reference and may vary by standard, heat and treatment.
