Külmtöötlemisteraseid

Külmtöötlemisterasid (cold heading steel) is a category of steel designed for forming processes performed at room temperature, typically involving cold upsetting or cold extrusion. These steels are characterized by their excellent ductility and toughness, allowing them to withstand significant plastic deformation without fracturing. The chemical composition of cold heading steels is carefully controlled to optimize these properties. Carbon content is generally kept low to moderate, as high carbon can increase hardness and reduce ductility. Alloying elements are also used sparingly, with manganese and silicon often present to improve strength and hardenability while maintaining formability.

The manufacturing process for cold heading steels involves specific heat treatments and rolling practices to ensure a fine, uniform grain structure and the absence of detrimental inclusions. These steels are often supplied in a spheroidized annealed condition, which further enhances their softness and ductility, making them ideal for high-speed, high-volume manufacturing of fasteners, bolts, screws, and other components. During the cold heading process, the steel is forced into a die to create the desired shape, and its ability to deform without cracking is paramount to the success of the operation and the integrity of the final product. Surface quality is also critical, as any defects can initiate cracks during forming.