Steel for making tool holders

I'm about to make a few Tripan tool holders for a toolpost I have. What would be the suggestion for the type of steel to use for these or does it not really matter. I was thinking of ground stock to the correct overall size but not sure what grades to go for.

Matt

I made a bunch of these a while back.. ordinary cold rolled bar. they seem to work fine.

I used ordinary black mild steel to make my toolholders. They might not last as long as hardened toolholders, but when they afre worn I can just make some new ones.

Thor

You won't wear them out if you use black rolled bar. Avoid "O1" ground stock it is not easy to machine and expensive for no real gain.

IIRC ground stock is either flat plate of square bar, so might not be available in the size you want anyway. As Chris says, it's tough to machine for no significant benefit. Better to use black rolled bar and if you are really keen you could always case harden. But what's going to wear anyway?

Thanks guys, you have answered my question and now I shall source some mild steel @ 30mm x 50mm - this being the section of the Tripan holders I want to make.

Matt

Matt,

I too would go with black rolled bar, I also suggest you 'rough out' all the main features on each tool holder to relieve any stresses in the material then finish M/C each block for the best results.

Tony

With hot rolled bar you won't find much in the way of residual stress.

Ian S C

You might find this video series useful.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoAVtGHV7dA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXgYJuNS1fg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEmlL1ZJIMk

Any old steel to hand will do. I've even got 5 in aluminium (ran out of steel stock)...

Thanks John - a tutorial for the holders I am after!! Couldnt be better. I see he uses plain carbon steel ground stock.

Matt