420 Stainless Steel Composition & High‑Hardness Martensitic Properties
420 (UNS S42000) is a high‑hardness martensitic stainless steel containing 12–14% chromium and elevated carbon levels (0.15–0.40%). It can be hardened above 50 HRC through heat treatment, offering excellent wear resistance and mechanical strength.
It is widely used for knives, scissors, surgical tools, molds, shafts, and wear‑resistant components. Corrosion resistance is moderate and suitable for mildly corrosive environments. 420 is supplied as plates, bars, strips, and forgings. It is a preferred material for cutting tools, medical devices, molds, and precision mechanical parts requiring high hardness.
It is widely used for knives, scissors, surgical tools, molds, shafts, and wear‑resistant components. Corrosion resistance is moderate and suitable for mildly corrosive environments. 420 is supplied as plates, bars, strips, and forgings. It is a preferred material for cutting tools, medical devices, molds, and precision mechanical parts requiring high hardness.