Steel produced by Bohler-Uddeholm, ELMAX is a third-generation sintered powder steel (PM: Powder Metallurgy) with a high percentage of chromium, vanadium, and molybdenum. This composition allows the metal to acquire high wear resistance, high compressive strength, superior oxidation resistance, excellent dimensional stability, and the ability to maintain its shape even after intensive use.
The PM process combined with the high concentration of chromium makes Elmax suitable for good grinding and excellent polishing.
This process gives knives the advantages of superior edge retention and decent ease of sharpening; often reasons why users are attracted to this type of steel for cutlery. The steel production process is called "Superclean," combined with fine powders and carbides, ensuring easy grinding and polishing.
Steel hardness after quenching:
When hardened to 57-59 HRC, although this steel can effectively reach 62 HRC, the knife already achieves good edge durability as well as impact resistance not commonly found in other steels and excellent workability. Therefore, an ELMAX knife can be used more intensively than knives made with other metals.
Chemical Composition
| C | Si | Mn | Cr | Mo | V |
| 1.70% | 0.80% | 0.30% | 18.00% | 1.00% | 3.00% |
Steel Properties
- High wear resistance (Less wear due to excellent resistance)
- High compressive strength
- Corrosion resistance (Reduced maintenance due to corrosion resistance)
- Excellent dimensional stability (fewer changes after heat treatment due to its excellent stability)
Hardening:
1050 - 1100° C recommended 1080° C hold 2 minutes per millimeter
Tempering:
2 times for 40 minutes
