What is HQS steel?

Question

Hi all,I've bought the odd die from  recently. These are BSPP dies which I've used on brass tubing. They seem okay for brass. Now I'm thinking about buying a BSW set, which will get used on steel. Their dies are listed as being "HQS" rather than HSS. This makes me a bit suspicious, but they might be fine. The company seems to have a reputation and claims HQS is a better alternative to HSS. Is HQS a recognised type of steel or is it junk? The dies I bought were marked "Totem" if this is any clue.Suggestions would be appreciated.Chris

Walter Craig · Accepted Answer

Hello Chris,  Not shure what HQS means it may indicate quenching in a gas  such as hydrogen.  Totem brand is regarded as a high quality product. Its been in  existance for a very long time.  A lot depends on how the taps/dies are used, they are one of the  most abused items in the home w/shop.  Regards Cutty.  > Hi all,  >  > I've bought the odd die from  recently. These are BSPP  > dies which I've used on brass tubing. They seem okay for brass. Now I'm  > thinking about buying a BSW set, which will get used on steel. Their  > dies are listed as being "HQS" rather than HSS. This makes me a bit  > suspicious, but they might be fine. The company seems to have a  > reputation and claims HQS is a better alternative to HSS. Is HQS a  > recognised type of steel or is it junk? The dies I bought were marked  > "Totem" if this is any clue.  >  > Suggestions would be appreciated.  >  > Chris  >

Christopher Tidy · Answer

Thanks Walter. I'll probably go ahead and purchase a set of Totem dies as the price is good. And use the right size drill, lubricate them and keep them in the case so they last!Chris

What is HQS steel?

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