Finkl RA40 is a premium quality resulturized, precipitation hardening mold steel It combines the benefits of a high hardness(approximately 40 HRC) with easy machinability (usually 40% faster cutting times than P-20 at 30 HRC). The Precipitation hardening characteristic provides maximum blending of weld areas.

Finkl RA40 is recommended for plastic and rubber molds that require higher wear resistance than available with typical mold steels like P-20, but freeing them from the inherent dangers of post-machining heat treatments typical for steels such as H-13.

Finkl vacuum arc remelting process (VAR), which maximizes cleanliness and minimizes segregation that leads to hard spots, combined with a fine bainitic structure and a precipitation hardening phenomenon permits RA40 to be polished in substantially less time than the usual mold steels.

Finkl RA40 can be readily electric discharge machined (EDM) without the appearance of a white martensitic layer on the surface. Consequently, no tempering operation is required following EDM.

Finkl RA40 has a much lower residual stress level than usual quenched and tempered steel due to the precipitation hardening process. This provides the mold maker with exceptional dimensional stability during processing and in actual operation of the mold.

Finkl RA40 also provides the advantage of an infinite ideal diameter (DI), which means that the center of the piece will exhibit the same high hardness as the surface, thus providing for an enhanced mold life.

Finkl RA40 can be chrome plated and photo-etched.

Finkl RA40 responds very well to nitriding due to the presence of aluminum. Ion nitriding is especially recommended for this steel, increasing its surface hardness up to 60 HRC and improving corrosion and wear resistance.

Molds manufactured with Finkl RA40 can be exposed without danger to temperatures up to 932°F (500°C). This will not cause size or hardness change in the mold.

Finkl RA40 is ALWAYS forged with a minimum of 5 to 1 reduction. It is sold in the aged condition, with a hardness of approximately 40 on the Rockwell scale. Finkl RA40 steel is forged utilizing wide die techniques which assure consolidated centers and fine grain structure, resulting in improved properties throughout.

Finkl RA40 is 100% ultrasonically tested according to the most rigorous standards. It is fully warranted for molds.