M390 Super Steel: High-Performance Wear and Corrosion Resistance
M390 is a premium martensitic stainless steel known for its outstanding wear resistance, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. Developed by Böhler-Uddeholm, M390 is widely used in high-end knives, cutting tools, and industrial applications requiring superior performance.
Chemical Composition and Properties
| Element | Composition (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 1.90 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 20.00 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.00 |
| Vanadium (V) | 4.00 |
| Tungsten (W) | 0.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | ≤ 0.70 |
| Manganese (Mn) | ≤ 0.30 |
| Iron (Fe) | Balance |
Key Features of M390 Steel
Superior Edge Retention – Maintains sharpness longer than most steels.
Outstanding Corrosion Resistance – High chromium content ensures durability in harsh environments.
Excellent Wear Resistance – Performs well under extreme cutting and abrasive conditions.
High Hardness – Achieves 60-62 HRC after proper heat treatment.
Fine Grain Structure – Ensures better toughness and machinability compared to other high-carbide steels.
Applications of M390 Steel
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Knife Making | High-end folding knives, fixed blades, and custom knives. |
| Cutting Tools | Industrial blades, scalpels, and high-precision cutting tools. |
| Aerospace | Corrosion-resistant components for extreme conditions. |
| Medical Tools | Surgical instruments requiring long-lasting sharpness. |
| Automotive | High-wear parts such as bearings and injection molding tools. |
Advantages of M390 Over Other Steels
| Comparison | M390 Super Steel | Other Steels |
|---|---|---|
| Edge Retention | Superior | Less than M390 |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Moderate (e.g., D2) |
| Wear Resistance | Outstanding | Lower in standard tool steels |
| Toughness | Moderate | Higher in steels like CPM-3V |
| Sharpness | High | Similar to premium stainless steels |
| Ease of Sharpening | Harder to sharpen | Easier in softer steels |
FAQ: M390 Steel
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Q1: How does M390 compare to S30V or S90V? | M390 offers better edge retention and corrosion resistance than S30V and a better balance of toughness than S90V. |
| Q2: Is M390 difficult to sharpen? | Yes, due to its hardness, but it retains sharpness much longer than standard steels. |
| Q3: What makes M390 a ‘super steel’? | Its high vanadium carbide content enhances wear resistance and durability. |
| Q4: Can M390 rust? | While highly corrosion-resistant, prolonged exposure to extreme moisture and neglect can cause minor oxidation. |
| Q5: What heat treatment is ideal for M390? | Hardened to 60-62 HRC using controlled heat treatment ensures optimal performance. |
| Q6: Is M390 good for everyday carry (EDC) knives? | Yes, it’s a top choice for premium EDC knives due to its long-lasting sharpness. |
| Q7: How does M390 perform in extreme temperatures? | It retains strength and wear resistance even under high-temperature conditions. |
Conclusion
M390 is one of the best-performing steels for high-end knives, precision tools, and industrial applications. With exceptional edge retention, superior wear resistance, and outstanding corrosion resistance, it is a top-tier choice for professionals who demand the best in durability and performance.
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