Tool steel is a specialized class of high-carbon and alloy steels engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty mechanical operations, particularly in the realm of cutting, shaping, and forming materials. It is characterized by its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and ability to maintain a sharp cutting edge even under high-temperature conditions. Tool steels typically contain varying amounts of carbon, alloying elements such as chromium, vanadium, and tungsten, which enhance their mechanical properties. The specific composition and heat treatment of tool steels are meticulously controlled to achieve the desired combination of hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability.

Tool steel is an indispensable material in manufacturing and metalworking industries, widely used to produce cutting tools, dies, molds, and other equipment that require precision and durability. It comes in various grades, each tailored for specific applications, ranging from cold work tool steels, suitable for cutting or forming materials at or near room temperature, to hot work tool steels, designed to withstand high-temperature operations like forging and extrusion. Furthermore, high-speed steels are a subset of tool steels developed for applications involving high cutting speeds and elevated temperatures. In essence, tool steel is the backbone of many industrial processes, enabling the creation of intricate and precise parts while withstanding extreme wear and mechanical stress.