At Alleima, we have been leading advancements in knife steel for decades, optimizing the metallurgical properties that define performance, durability, and customization.
Knife steel has evolved significantly over the last few decades, and today’s metallurgy in the field reflects advances in material technology, manufacturing techniques, and precision customization. At the heart of these developments is our work at Alleima, where we have been a pioneering force in the evolution of knife steel.
The Legacy of Knife Steel Metallurgy
In Sweden, iron production dates back millennia, with Högbo Bruk as one notable site for iron production in the 17th century—an area now home to Alleima. As Jonas Nilsson, our technical business developer, explains, “In 1862, Högbo Stål & Jernwerks AB was founded, which became the foundation for Alleima. In the early years, we produced steel for knife applications like bayonet steel for export and expanded into the consumer segment with the development of razor blade steel.”
Since the 19th century, our innovations have driven advancements in knife steel. One major breakthrough was our early success with the Bessemer process, which allowed for more efficient steel production. “We were basically the first in the world succeeding with that technique,” Nilsson highlights. By the 1970s, we had developed a full portfolio of stainless steel grades specifically for edge applications, setting the standard for knives across multiple industries.
Key Innovations: Microstructure and Performance
The success of any blade lies in the precise balance of its microstructure and metallurgical properties. As Nilsson describes, razor blade and surgical microtome producers have high expectations, requiring “a very homogeneous and clean microstructure with small non-metallic inclusions, enabling extremely keen edges, high hardness, and good toughness.” Advances in these areas have not only improved blade sharpness but have also enhanced corrosion resistance.
In 2009, we launched the 14C28N steel grade, marking a significant leap in the handheld knife segment. “The demand was to match the hardness and stability of razor blade steel while improving corrosion resistance,” Nilsson explains. More recently, in 2017, we introduced 10C28Mo2, with an ultra-fine carbide distribution, bringing further improvements in toughness, edge durability, and corrosion resistance. Both grades resulted from exciting development work in close collaboration with our customers.
A Portfolio Built for Performance
Today, our knife steel portfolio is renowned for meeting diverse application requirements, from everyday carry knives to military-grade tools and professional chef’s knives. “When choosing the steel for a knife, it’s important to bear in mind the application for which the knife will be used,” Nilsson advises, emphasizing that different challenges require specific grades and treatments.
With more than ten specialized grades, such as the widely used 12C27, 14C28N, and 10C28Mo2, we offer tailored solutions designed to optimize edge performance, toughness, and corrosion resistance. “Our all-in-house production and strong R&D allow us to tightly control the chemical composition and process parameters, which ensures a stable, high-quality product,” Nilsson says.
Meeting the Demands for Sustainability
Sustainability is a key focus for us at Alleima. As Nilsson notes, “In July 2024, we received an EcoVadis Gold Medal, putting us in the top 5% of companies globally for sustainability.” Approximately 83% of the raw material used in our knife steel is recycled, and we run the main part of our furnaces on fossil-free electricity. “We also work with a scrap buy-back program to increase the level of recycled steel,” Nilsson adds.
Our commitment to reducing the CO2 footprint extends to the products we create. By focusing on developing alloys that improve edge-holding capability, regrindability, and corrosion resistance, we ensure our blades have a long lifespan. Moreover, at the end of their lifecycle, these knives can be remelted into new steel products with high quality without adding to the industry’s carbon footprint.
Our Damascus Innovation: Damax™
One of our most exciting innovations in recent years is Damax, a layered stainless Damascus steel produced on an industrial scale. Damax combines the aesthetic qualities of traditional Damascus steel with our trademark performance standards, merging layered steel with modern, cost-efficient production methods.
“The key thing with Damax is that it’s a perfect merge of tailor-made, handcrafted products and industrialized processes,” Nilsson explains. This combination allows the material to reach a hardness of around 60 Rockwell, making it ideal for high-performance knives.
What’s Next for Knife Steel?
Looking ahead, we foresee an industry driven by the demands for performance and sustainability. The growing interest in outdoor activities, spurred by the pandemic, has created a surge in demand for high-end, durable blades. “We’re seeing an increase in the outdoor segment and more interest in kitchen knives with higher hardness and acute edge angles, like Japanese-style knives,” Nilsson says. Additionally, small, independent knife producers have gained momentum through social media, further diversifying the market.
While revolutionary changes may not be on the horizon in the next decade, we anticipate continued refinement of existing steel properties. Knife makers are pushing for even higher hardness and wear resistance, balanced with toughness and corrosion resistance. Our focus remains on producing blades that meet the specific needs of their users, from chefs to outdoor adventurers.
As we continue to innovate and respond to the evolving demands of the knife industry, our role in shaping the future of knife steel is far from over. Whether through improving sustainability or developing cutting-edge materials like Damax, we at Alleima are setting the standard for what’s possible in blade technology.