T4

Data under review

T4 adds about 5% cobalt to the T1 base for extra red hardness in heavy cuts and roughing work. It is a legacy grade, largely replaced by M35/M42 in new tooling but still specified on older drawings.

Hardness63–66 HRC
DIN— (HS18-0-1-5 family)
AISIT4
JISSKH3 (near)
CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

ElementContent (%)
C0.70–0.80
Si≤0.40
Mn≤0.40
Cr3.75–4.50
W17.25–18.75
V0.80–1.20
Co4.25–5.75

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery conditionAnnealed
Hardness (hardened)63–66 HRC
Density8.60 g/cm³
Red hardnessHigher than T1 (cobalt)

Heat treatment

Preheat 850 °C; harden 1260–1290 °C; triple temper 540–580 °C.

Equivalent grades

StandardDesignation
din— (HS18-0-1-5 family)
aisiT4
jisSKH3 (near)
gbW18Cr4VCo5 (near)

Compare side by side: T4 vs T1 · T4 vs M35

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Roughing lathe tools, milling cutters, heavy-duty form tools.

Processing: As T1; cobalt slightly reduces toughness, so avoid interrupted cuts at full hardness.

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Source: ASTM A600 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.