Alloy Steel > Rod & Bar > M-50

Commonly produced by VIM – VAR methods, this M50 is an intermediate high speed, molybdenum type tool steel.

Applications: Most often employed in tooling applications where abrasion resistance is less important, such as woodworking tools and commercial twist drills. In its VIM/VAR form, M50 has become useful in the bearing and missile industry for high wear resistance and strength at high temperatures.

Machinability: This alloy is best machined in the annealed condition. It is rated at 65 % of a 1% carbon steel, or 50% of a B1112.

Forming: Not applicable

Heat Treatment: See annealing, tempering and hardening.

Forging: Preheat to 1500 F and soak thoroughly. Then increase temperature to 2000 F prior to working. Do not forge below 1800 F.

Annealing: Heat to 1600 F and furnace cool slowly. M50 is extremely susceptible to decarburization and must be protected during any thermal treatment.

Tempering: Tempering should immediately follow quenching. For best performance, double temper at 1025 F.

Hardening: For optimum performance and stability, preheat work to 1500 F until soaked, then superheat to 2000 F only long enough for the work to reach furnace temperature and quench immediately. Cool the work to -100 F and soak for 1 hour.