Which material is commonly used for manufacturing cutting tools?

High-speed steel is widely recognized as a preferred material for manufacturing cutting tools due to its excellent hardness and wear resistance at elevated temperatures. This property is critical because cutting tools often operate under extreme conditions, where they encounter high friction and heat generated during machining processes. High-speed steel maintains its toughness and sharp edge, enabling efficient cutting without deforming easily.

Additionally, high-speed steel can be easily ground and shaped into precise tool geometries, making it versatile for a range of cutting applications. Its ability to retain hardness at high temperatures surpasses that of many other materials, which is essential for sustaining a longer tool life and reducing the need for frequent tool changes. These characteristics collectively make high-speed steel the material of choice in the manufacturing of various cutting tools used in industries ranging from metalworking to woodworking.