Effect of Si Content on Mechanical Properties of a Mo and V Free Low Alloy Cast Steel for Automobile Cold Pressing Die

The effects of Si content on combinations of important properties such as hardness, hardenability, and weld- ability in addition to strength increment were systematically investigated to develop a Mo and V free low alloy cast steel for automobile cold pressing die insert. For the evaluation of the applicability as the die in- sert, the mechanical properties were measured after spheroidization annealing (SA), quenching and tempering (Q/T), and flame hardening (FH) treatments, respectively. The developed 0.8%-1.6%Si containing Mo and V free alloy cast steels showed excellent matrix strengthening effect, hardenability, and weldability, fulfilling the industrial criterion of the mechanical properties for the die insert.