Overview
Special steel H13/1.2344 is a versatile and high-performance tool steel known for its excellent combination of toughness, hardness, and heat resistance. Widely used in the tool and mould industry, this steel stands out for its durability and ability to withstand thermal fatigue. Whether you’re in the automotive, aerospace, or general manufacturing sector, H13/1.2344 tool steel provides a reliable solution for demanding applications.
Types, Composition, Properties, and Characteristics
Types and Composition
H13/1.2344 steel is part of the chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy family, characterized by its specific chemical composition which enhances its performance properties.
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.32 – 0.45 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 4.75 – 5.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.10 – 1.75 |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.80 – 1.20 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.80 – 1.20 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.20 – 0.50 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.030 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.030 |
Properties and Characteristics
H13/1.2344 tool steel is prized for its balanced mechanical properties which make it ideal for high-stress applications.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Hardness | Excellent hardness retention up to 50-52 HRC after tempering |
| Toughness | High impact resistance, making it less prone to cracking |
| Heat Resistance | Maintains strength and hardness at elevated temperatures (up to 600°C) |
| Wear Resistance | Superior wear resistance due to its chromium and vanadium content |
| Machinability | Moderate, can be machined with appropriate tooling |
| Thermal Conductivity | Good thermal conductivity, essential for tool and die applications |
| Corrosion Resistance | Limited, primarily used in non-corrosive environments |
Applications of Special Steel H13/1.2344 Tool & Mould Steel
H13/1.2344 steel’s unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, particularly in industries where durability and heat resistance are critical.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Injection Moulds | Used for making moulds that can endure repeated thermal cycling and high-pressure conditions |
| Die Casting Dies | Ideal for dies exposed to high temperatures and pressures in aluminum and magnesium die casting |
| Extrusion Tools | Utilized in manufacturing tools for metal extrusion processes requiring high wear resistance |
| Hot Forging Dies | Suitable for forging operations due to its toughness and thermal fatigue resistance |
| Shear Blades | Employed in cutting and shearing applications needing sharp, durable blades |
| Aircraft and Automotive Components | Used in making high-stress components in the aerospace and automotive industries |
| Plastic Moulds | Effective for plastic injection moulding where precision and durability are needed |
| Punches and Dies | Applied in manufacturing punches and dies for sheet metal operations |
| Hot Runner Systems | Integral to maintaining fluidity and precision in hot runner systems for injection moulding |
| Industrial Knives | Fabricated for industrial cutting tools requiring long-lasting sharpness and strength |
Specifications, Sizes, Grades, Standards
Specifications
H13/1.2344 steel is produced to meet various industrial standards and specifications ensuring consistent quality and performance.
| Specification | Standard |
|---|---|
| DIN | 1.2344 |
| AISI | H13 |
| UNS | T20813 |
| JIS | SKD61 |
| BS | BH13 |
| ASTM | A681 |
Sizes and Grades
H13/1.2344 steel is available in a variety of sizes and grades to suit different industrial requirements.
| Size Range (mm) | Grade |
|---|---|
| Round Bar | 20 – 500 |
| Flat Bar | 10 x 20 – 100 x 300 |
| Plate | 10 – 200 thickness |
| Square Bar | 20 – 200 |
Standards
Adhering to international standards ensures the material’s reliability and compatibility across different regions.
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| ISO 4957 | International standard for tool steels |
| EN ISO 4957 | European standard for tool steels |
| ASTM A681 | American standard specification for tool steels |
| JIS G4404 | Japanese standard for alloy tool steels |
| BS 4659 | British standard for tool and die steels |
Suppliers and Pricing Details
Finding a reliable supplier for H13/1.2344 tool steel ensures quality and consistency in your projects.
| Supplier | Location | Price Range (USD/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thyssenkrupp Materials | Global | 10 – 20 | Premium quality, global shipping |
| Hitachi Metals | Japan | 12 – 22 | High-grade steel, excellent purity |
| Bohler-Uddeholm | Austria | 11 – 21 | Known for consistent quality |
| Daido Steel | Japan | 13 – 25 | High performance, suitable for precision |
| ArcelorMittal | Global | 9 – 18 | Competitive pricing, wide availability |
| Nachi-Fujikoshi Corp | Japan | 14 – 26 | Superior heat resistance properties |
| Voestalpine | Austria | 10 – 19 | Excellent machinability |
| Owen Industries | USA | 10 – 20 | Reliable delivery within North America |
| Nippon Koshuha Steel Co. Ltd | Japan | 15 – 28 | High-end applications, specialty orders |
| Ellwood Specialty Steel | USA | 11 – 21 | Extensive inventory, rapid shipping |
Advantages and Limitations
When selecting H13/1.2344 tool steel, it’s essential to weigh its advantages against its limitations to determine its suitability for your needs.
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| High Heat Resistance | Can be more expensive than other tool steels |
| Excellent Toughness | Limited corrosion resistance, not suitable for corrosive environments |
| Good Wear Resistance | Requires precise heat treatment to achieve optimal properties |
| Retains Hardness at Elevated Temperatures | Moderate machinability, may need specialized equipment |
| Versatility in Various Applications | Not the best choice for extremely cold environments |
| Consistent Performance Across Different Industrial Uses | Availability may vary based on region and supplier |
| Strong Thermal Conductivity for Efficient Heat Dissipation | Higher maintenance requirements to preserve properties |
Metal Powder Models and Their Descriptions
Popular Metal Powder Models for H13/1.2344
Utilizing metal powder in additive manufacturing or powder metallurgy can enhance the material’s performance characteristics and versatility.
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
| H13-AP | Atomized powder for additive manufacturing, excellent flow properties, high density |
| H13-SP | Spherical powder suitable for laser powder bed fusion, uniform particle size distribution |
| H13-GP | Gas-atomized powder ideal for metal injection moulding, fine particle size |
| H13-PA | Plasma atomized powder for high precision components, minimal impurities |
| H13-MP | Mechanical alloyed powder, enhanced wear resistance, used in thermal spraying |
| H13-LP | Low-oxygen powder for improved ductility and toughness, used in hot isostatic pressing |
| H13-NP | Nitrogen-atomized powder, better nitrogen solubility, improved toughness |
| H13-FP | Fine powder for precision casting and rapid prototyping, high surface finish quality |
| H13-EP | Electrolytic powder, high purity, excellent for sintering applications |
| H13-HP | High-purity powder for biomedical and high-end industrial applications |
FAQs
Special Steel H13/1.2344 Tool & Mould Steel
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is H13/1.2344 tool steel primarily used for? | It is used for making injection moulds, die casting dies, extrusion tools, and hot forging dies. |
| What are the key properties of H13/1.2344 tool steel? | It offers high hardness, toughness, heat resistance, and good wear resistance. |
| How does H13/1.2344 steel compare to other tool steels? | H13/1.2344 is superior in terms of heat resistance and toughness compared to many other tool steels. |
| Can H13/1.2344 steel be machined easily? | It has moderate machinability and requires proper tooling and conditions for best results. |
| What standards does H13/1.2344 steel comply with? | It complies with standards such as DIN 1.2344, AISI H13, and ASTM A681. |
| Is H13/1.2344 suitable for corrosive environments? | No, it has limited corrosion resistance and is best used in non-corrosive environments. |
| What are the common forms of H13/1.2344 available? | It is available in round bars, flat bars, plates, and square bars. |
| Why is H13/1.2344 steel preferred for high-temperature applications? | Because it retains its hardness and strength at elevated temperatures. |
| Who are the leading suppliers of H13/1.2344 steel? | Leading suppliers include Thyssenkrupp Materials, Hitachi Metals, and Bohler-Uddeholm. |
| What are the price ranges for H13/1.2344 steel? | Prices typically range from $10 to $28 per kilogram depending on the supplier and specific requirements. |
Conclusion
Special steel H13/1.2344 is a top-tier choice for tool and mould applications, offering a balance of toughness, heat resistance, and wear resistance. Its versatility makes it indispensable across various industries, from automotive to aerospace. When selecting this steel, consider the specific requirements of your application, the availability of different grades and sizes, and the reputation of suppliers. By understanding its properties and capabilities, you can leverage H13/1.2344 to enhance the performance and longevity of your tools and moulds.
