Hi; I am working on a hydraulic press and was wondering if the dies should be hardened steel or can any steel I can find work. I' am leaning towards hardened steel but not really sure. Appreciate ant advice. Thanks.

 

Grinder

Annealed will work as cold steel is harder than yellow hot steel. Also depending on the size, a hot chunk of steel can possibly draw a temper on a hardened part. But if it is being used constantly a hardened die can last longer.

 

Thanks Biggundoctor. Maybe I can find a piece of railroad track to cut up.

If you are talking flat dies still try to find some tough. You will experience wallering on the edges you use the most for reducing stock. If its soft it will occur faster then its hardened.