Which low alloy tool steel is known for being hardened in oil and has low tendency to shrink or warp?

• A. AISI M3
• B. AISI 01
• C. AISI 02
• D. AISI 06

Answer: (B)

The low alloy tool steel known for being hardened in oil and having a low tendency to shrink or warp is AISI 01. This steel is popular for its excellent balance of hardness, toughness, and wear resistance, making it suitable for a variety of tooling applications.

AISI 01 is a commonly used oil-hardening tool steel that exhibits good dimensional stability during the hardening process. Its composition includes carbon and alloying elements that enhance its performance, allowing it to retain its shape and size well even after being subjected to the heat treatment process.

This characteristic of low shrinkage and warping is crucial in tool manufacturing, where precision and accuracy are paramount. As a result, AISI 01 is often preferred for making manufacturing tools, dies, and other equipment that require high precision and durability.

The other types of tool steels listed have different properties or are intended for other hardening processes, which may not offer the same benefits in terms of shrinkage and warping during hardening.