Tool Steels

Molex® #7

OIL HARDENING, DECARB-FREE TOOL STEEL

Molex #7 is a superior quality oil hardening tool steel with exceptional toughness and the ability to develop a high degree of hardness (additional thermal treatment is required). Good all-around tool steel for applications including: collets, threading dies, cam rollers, swages, vise jaws, punches, and die blocks. Call or email us for a quote.

Should be considered when applications typically call out for AISI 0-1, L-6 or 52100.

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Key Features

100% Decarb-Free (Pre-Machined Oversize) 

Excellent Toughness 

Excellent Machinability 

Good Wear Resistance 

Good Non-Deforming Properties 

Good Deep Hardening 

Typical Surface Condition*

• Ground Top and Bottom – (+.015”/+.035” oversize)
• Sides Saw Cut – (+1/8”)
• Length Saw Cut – (+1/8” oversize)
• Surface Finish – RMS 125 or better

*As delivered (pre-machined condition)

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Applications

Available Lengths

10/12 Ft Random Lengths and Custom-Cut-To-Lengths

Available Sizes

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Thermal Treatment*

Tempering – Temper immediately after quenching. Hold at tempering temperature for no less than 2 hours. Tool and punches are normally tempered at 350°F/400°F for max. hardness.

Annealing – Vacuum furnace or pack in sealed container. Heat slowly to 1,425°F/1,450°F. Hold for 1 hour per inch of thickness. Cool slowly in furnace. Expected hardness is 212 BHN.

Hardening – Heat slowly to 1,475°F/1,500°F. Hold for uniformity. Oil quench. Pre-heat to 1,200°F/1,250°F. Cool slowly. At 125°F/150°F begin tempering. Do not allow to cool to ambient room temperature.

Tempering Chart
@ 800°F typical hardness Rockwell “C” 50.
@ 1,000°F typical hardness Rockwell “C” 44.
@ 1,200°F typical hardness Rockwell “C” 30.

* Above values are typical and are not guaranteed.