N690 Steel vs S35VN
N690 steel and S35VN are two high-performance stainless steel alloys that are widely used in a variety of applications, from cutting tools and knives to outdoor equipment and precision machinery. Understanding the unique properties and characteristics of these steels is essential for anyone involved in materials selection or product design.
What is N690 Steel? N690 steel, also known as Böhler N690 or Nitro-Cobalt steel, is a martensitic stainless steel alloy that is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high hardness, and exceptional edge retention. The chemical composition of N690 steel includes:
- Carbon: 0.05-0.15%
- Chromium: 16.5-18.5%
- Molybdenum: 1.0-1.5%
- Nickel: 1.5-2.5%
- Cobalt: 1.5-2.5%
This unique blend of elements gives N690 steel superior mechanical properties, making it a popular choice for applications where corrosion resistance, edge sharpness, and durability are paramount. N690 steel is often used in the manufacture of high-quality knives, scissors, and other cutting tools, as well as in the production of outdoor gear and marine equipment.
What is S35VN Steel? S35VN, also referred to as CPM S35VN or Crucible S35VN, is a high-performance martensitic stainless steel that is renowned for its exceptional toughness, wear resistance, and edge retention. The chemical composition of S35VN steel includes:
- Carbon: 0.85-1.00%
- Chromium: 14.0-14.5%
- Vanadium: 2.8-3.2%
- Nitrogen: 0.08-0.12%
The addition of vanadium and nitrogen to the S35VN formula helps to increase its hardness, strength, and resistance to wear and deformation, making it a popular choice for high-end cutting tools, knives, and other precision applications. S35VN is often used in the manufacture of premium-quality pocket knives, hunting knives, and other specialist blades where a combination of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance is required.
As you can see, both N690 and S35VN are highly specialized stainless steel alloys with unique properties and characteristics. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the key differences and similarities between these two materials, exploring their performance in various real-world applications.
The Battle of the Steels: N690 vs S35VN
Hardness and Toughness
One of the primary differences between N690 steel and S35VN steel is their relative hardness and toughness. N690 steel is generally harder, with a Rockwell hardness range of 58-60 HRC, while S35VN has a slightly lower hardness range of 56-58 HRC.
However, the higher toughness of S35VN steel means that it is less likely to chip or fracture under heavy impact or stress. This makes S35VN a better choice for applications where the blade or component may be subjected to sudden shocks or impacts, such as in the case of hunting knives or survival tools.
In contrast, the higher hardness of N690 steel allows it to maintain a sharper edge for longer and resist wear more effectively, making it a preferred choice for cutting tools and knives that require frequent sharpening.
Corrosion Resistance
Both N690 and S35VN are highly corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloys, but they differ in their specific resistance to different types of corrosion.
N690 steel is known for its excellent resistance to general corrosion, pitting, and crevice corrosion, thanks to its high chromium content and the addition of molybdenum and cobalt. This makes N690 an excellent choice for outdoor and marine applications, where the steel may be exposed to salt, moisture, and other corrosive elements.
S35VN, on the other hand, is particularly resistant to stress corrosion cracking, a type of corrosion that can occur when the steel is under constant stress or tension. This makes S35VN a better choice for applications where the steel may be subjected to high levels of stress, such as in the case of high-performance knives or cutting tools.
Edge Retention and Sharpness
One of the key advantages of both N690 and S35VN steels is their exceptional edge retention and sharpness. However, the specific characteristics of each steel differ in this regard.
N690 steel is known for its ability to maintain a razor-sharp edge for an extended period, thanks to its high hardness and resistance to wear. This makes it a popular choice for high-end knives, scissors, and other cutting tools where a consistently sharp edge is essential.
S35VN, on the other hand, is renowned for its ability to be re-sharpened and maintain a keen edge over multiple sharpenings. This is due to the steel’s high toughness, which allows it to hold an edge better than many other stainless steel alloys.
In terms of sharpness, both N690 and S35VN are capable of achieving a high level of edge refinement, with the potential to create exceptionally sharp blades. However, the specific sharpness achieved may depend on factors such as the heat treatment process, the skill of the knife maker, and the intended use of the blade.
Cost and Availability
When it comes to cost and availability, there are some notable differences between N690 and S35VN steels.
N690 steel is generally more widely available than S35VN, as it is produced by several major steel manufacturers around the world. This relatively high availability, combined with its extensive use in a variety of industries, means that N690 steel is typically more affordable than S35VN.
S35VN, on the other hand, is a proprietary steel alloy developed and produced by Crucible Industries, a leading manufacturer of high-performance tool steels. This more limited availability and specialized production process means that S35VN is often more expensive than N690 steel, particularly for smaller-scale purchases or custom orders.
However, it’s worth noting that the overall cost of a finished product made from N690 or S35VN steel may also be influenced by other factors, such as the complexity of the manufacturing process, the level of precision required, and the brand or reputation of the manufacturer.
Performance Considerations: N690 vs S35VN
Outdoor and Marine Applications
Both N690 and S35VN steels are well-suited for outdoor and marine applications, thanks to their excellent corrosion resistance. However, there are some key differences in their performance in these environments.
N690 steel’s superior resistance to general corrosion, pitting, and crevice corrosion makes it a particularly good choice for outdoor gear, marine equipment, and other applications where the steel may be exposed to salt, moisture, and other corrosive elements. This makes N690 a popular choice for the manufacture of knives, tools, and hardware used in outdoor and marine settings.
S35VN, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional resistance to stress corrosion cracking, which can be a concern in applications where the steel is under constant stress or tension, such as in the case of high-performance knives or cutting tools used in rugged outdoor environments. This makes S35VN a preferred choice for specialty outdoor and marine equipment where both corrosion resistance and high-stress performance are required.
Cutting and Edged Tools
When it comes to cutting and edged tools, both N690 and S35VN steel offer exceptional performance, but with some notable differences.
N690 steel’s high hardness and excellent edge retention make it a popular choice for the manufacture of high-quality knives, scissors, and other cutting tools where a consistently sharp edge is essential. The steel’s ability to maintain its sharpness for an extended period of use is particularly beneficial for applications where frequent sharpening is impractical or undesirable.
S35VN, on the other hand, is renowned for its exceptional toughness and wear resistance, which makes it an excellent choice for high-performance cutting tools and knives used in demanding applications. The steel’s ability to be re-sharpened multiple times without losing its keen edge is particularly beneficial for users who require a durable, long-lasting cutting edge.
Ultimately, the choice between N690 and S35VN for cutting and edged tools will depend on the specific requirements of the application, such as the expected level of use, the need for frequent sharpening, and the desired balance between hardness and toughness.
Precision Manufacturing
When it comes to precision manufacturing, both N690 and S35VN steel offer unique advantages and challenges.
N690 steel’s high hardness and resistance to wear make it an excellent choice for the production of precision components and parts that require a high degree of dimensional accuracy and surface finish. The steel’s hardness also allows for the creation of intricate designs and features with minimal deformation or distortion during the manufacturing process.
S35VN, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional toughness and resistance to deformation, which can be beneficial in certain precision manufacturing applications where the component may be subjected to high levels of stress or impact. The steel’s toughness can also make it slightly more challenging to machine and finish to the same degree of precision as N690, particularly in complex geometries or tight tolerances.
Ultimately, the choice between N690 and S35VN for precision manufacturing applications will depend on the specific requirements of the component, the manufacturing processes involved, and the desired balance between hardness, toughness, and other performance characteristics.
Conclusion: Choosing Between N690 Steel and S35VN
When it comes to choosing between N690 steel and S35VN, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The optimal choice will depend on the specific requirements of the application, as well as the priorities and preferences of the designer or end-user.
In general, N690 steel is an excellent choice for applications where corrosion resistance, edge retention, and hardness are the primary concerns, such as in the manufacture of high-quality knives, scissors, and other cutting tools. The steel’s relatively wide availability and moderate cost also make it a practical option for many applications.
S35VN, on the other hand, is the preferred choice for applications where a combination of toughness, wear resistance, and edge retention are essential, such as in the production of premium-quality knives, outdoor equipment, and precision components. The steel’s exceptional performance characteristics come at a higher cost, but for many users, the investment is well worth it.
Ultimately, the decision to use N690 steel or S35VN will depend on a careful evaluation of the specific requirements of the application, as well as the designer’s or manufacturer’s priorities and budget. By understanding the unique properties and characteristics of these two high-performance stainless steel alloys, you can make an informed decision that will result in a superior product that meets the needs of your customers or end-users.
