Steel 100C6 - 52100 : Carbon round bar for knife forging
100C6, also known by its American name AISI 52100, is a very interesting carbon steel for cutlery. Relatively simple in its composition, it contains a high level of carbon (1%), 1.5% Chromium and small quantities of Silicon and M...
Steel 100C6 - 52100 : Carbon round bar for knife forging
100C6, also known by its American name AISI 52100, is a very interesting carbon steel for cutlery. Relatively simple in its composition, it contains a high level of carbon (1%), 1.5% Chromium and small quantities of Silicon and Manganese. Used at the beginning of the 20th century for the manufacture of rolling cages, 52100 is still the preferred grade for this application today.
What is the difference between 1095 and 52100 ?
Although both steels have the same carbon content, the presence of chromium in the composition of 100C6 gives this grade a better hardenability. This means that to obtain maximum hardness, soaking 52100 in oil will be sufficient while 1095 will need faster cooling, e. g. with water. Chromium also reduces the size of the carbides, which will allow your part to obtain better ductility characteristics. As a result, 52100 has finer carbides and higher density than the 1095. On the other hand, the presence of chromium requires an increase in the austenitizing temperature to about 850°C compared to 800°C for unalloyed carbon steel.
Can 52100 be easily forged?
The chromium content is still much lower than for air-hardened steels such as D2. There is no carbide present in the hot working temperature range, so the material moves easily under the hammer. Easier to work with, the 52100 can be worked in the low temperature range without too many consequences, unlike steels such as 90MCV8 (O2) or O1 which will have a higher risk of cracks if forged too cold.
