The perforating punch is an essential yet fragile part of the die assembly; it is the component most likely to fail to result in productivity loss. Structural soundness is impacted by material and construction details. Therefore, tool steel selection plays an important role in punch performance. However, tool steel selection is largely dependent on individual preference and application requirements.

Tipco’s primary material is M2 for metalform tooling but can manufacture from bar stock in a wide range of cold work and powder metallurgically produced tool steels. Both Tipco US and Canada have longstanding relationships with local tool steel service centers to support quick turnaround.

Tool steels Tipco works with include:

• A2 tool steel
• S7 tool steel
• D2 tool steel
• 1%, 3%, 4%, 9%, 10% and 15% Vanadium Steels

Tipco Canada offers in-house custom heat treat services, specializing in vacuum hardening of all materials. We also provide case hardening and have the ability to heat treat oil quench materials as well as an on-site salt bath nitrider for small tooling.