Crucible Industries / USA

CPM-Maxamet

Powder Metallurgy High-Speed / Tool Steel64-66HRCCrucible Particle Metallurgy (CPM)

Composition

Core alloying elements define the baseline trade-off between wear resistance, corrosion behavior, and toughness.

Material Overview

CPM Maxamet is a powder metallurgy tool steel produced by Crucible Industries, designed for maximum hardness and wear resistance. Its very high carbon and alloy content delivers extreme edge retention, but its toughness is moderate and it is prone to corrosion due to being non-stainless. This steel is suitable for knives and tools where edge longevity is critical, and proper maintenance is required to prevent rust.

Performance Radar

Use four core metrics to understand the usable operating envelope of this steel at a glance.

Edge Retention

Toughness

Corrosion Resistance

Sharpenability

Edge Retention

10.0

Toughness

7.0

Corrosion Resistance

4.0

Sharpenability

5.0

Advantages

Exceptional edge retention
Extremely hard and wear-resistant
Fine powder metallurgy structure for stable edges
Excellent for precision cutting applications

Disadvantages

Low corrosion resistance (non-stainless)
Moderate toughness, can chip under heavy impact
Difficult to sharpen
Premium cost

At A Glance

CPM Maxamet is an ultra-high-speed, wear-resistant steel with exceptional edge retention. It is non-stainless, extremely hard, and ideal for industrial cutting tools or high-end knives requiring maximum edge performance.