type of steel for mould application

[ElDaw]

I'm working on a project where we have to make new mould for rubber press molding. So I need your help to find the best steel to do that. Here are the operational conditons:

- Steam heated mold by holes machined into the base and top parts. (350 degree F).

- Pressure 2000 psi

- Dimensions : 4' x 6' x 1 3/8''

- Moulds are supported only by sides (4' one) when they are not in pressing process.

Until now our choice is Canadian steel 44W, many said that is was good enough, but I'd like to have an expert advice considering the cost and criticity of this project.

Thank you everyone !

 

[TVP]

Will this mould be in contact with steam at 350 F? 44W is just a conventional ferritic steel, which will obviously corrode under these conditions without suitable surface treatment. Don't you usually use stainless steel moulds?

 

[ElDaw]

Corrosion does not matter because steam is treated to be not reactive with steel pipes and mould. I put a picture of the mould section.

 

[arunmrao]

Rubber industry here predominantly use cast iron moulds. They are cheap to cast, easy to machine and can last long compared to steel.

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