It is a tool steel with a high carbon content. It is the Japanese equivalent of the W108 according to the American AISI standards. It may also be designated as SK-85. It is carbon steel for water quenching. In addition to knives, it is also used for springs, drills and blades of cutting tools (such as scalpels or razor blades). It is hard and durable. Thanks to alloy additives, it has increased resistance to abrasion and wear. It is a high-quality steel. Due to its high hardness, up to 63 HRC, it keeps sharpness well, but it makes sharpening difficult. The content of chromium and copper is to delay its corrosion, although the steel is rusty. This steel provides a perfect balance between hardness and strength.
Composition:
- Carbon: 0,80 – 0,90%
- Chromium: 0,30%
- Nickel: 0,25%
- Silicon: 0,10 – 0,35%
- Manganese: 0,10 – 0,50%
- Phosphorus: <0,03%
- Sulfur: <0,03%
- Copper: <0,025%