The aim of this work is to evaluate the thermal and mechanical loadings applied to
the tools during steel thixoforming process in order to determine appropriate tool materials
and solutions. This evaluation was realized thanks to experimental trials and to the finite
elements simulations. The effect of these loadings on the tool’s failure modes are highlighted
and compared to the ones observed in classical forming processes. Beyond this, the failure
modes of different tool materials and solutions are presented. The tested materials are hotworking
tool steels. Other possibilities and tool coating or surface treatments are discussed as
well