H13 | 1.2344 | SKD61 | Hot Work Tool Steel
H13 | 1.2344 | SKD61 | Hot Work Tool Steel
H13 is a widely used hot work tool steel. It conforms to the ASTM A681 standard. The “H” indicates its use in hot work applications, and “13” is its grade number. Equivalent grades include 1.2344 (Germany), SKD61 (Japan), and BH13 (China). H13 has high toughness, good resistance to thermal fatigue, and excellent wear resistance. It is used for die-casting molds, extrusion dies, forging tools, and other high-temperature applications.
Description
What Is H13?
H13 is composed of approximately 0.4% carbon, 5.25% chromium, 1.35% molybdenum, and 1.0% vanadium, with the balance being iron. It is a solid, high-alloy tool steel known for its excellent toughness and resistance to thermal fatigue. H13 has high hardenability and maintains its hardness at elevated temperatures. This steel is primarily used in hot work applications such as die casting, extrusion, and forging tools. H13 is produced through hot rolling, followed by annealing to refine its grain structure. It can be further classified into subgrades like H13 ESR (Electro-Slag Refined) for enhanced cleanliness and H13 Mod (Modified) for improved toughness.Characteristics of H13 Steel
H13 steel is a versatile hot work tool steel known for its excellent toughness, thermal fatigue resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures. It features high hardenability and can maintain hardness at elevated temperatures. This makes it ideal for hot work applications such as extrusion, forging, and die casting. Advantages of H13 include good resistance to thermal shock, wear resistance, and high strength at elevated temperatures. It is also highly machinable, which simplifies manufacturing processes. For scenarios where H13 might not be suitable, consider using other steel grades such as A2, D2, or M2. These alternatives offer different balances of wear resistance, toughness, and hardness that can address specific needs. H13 is commonly used in applications like die-casting molds, extrusion dies, forging dies, and hot shearing blades. Its ability to perform reliably in extreme conditions makes it a preferred choice in the manufacturing industry.Chemical Compositions
| 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 |
Physical Properties
| Property | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 7.8 g/cm³ | 0.282 lb/in³ |
| Melting Point | 1425 – 1530 °C | 2600 – 2786 °F |
| Boiling Point | – | – |
| Thermal Conductivity | 28 W/m·K | 16.2 BTU/(hr·ft·°F) |
| Electrical Conductivity | 1.4 % IACS | 1.4 % IACS |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 460 J/(kg·K) | 0.11 BTU/(lb·°F) |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 11.3 µm/(m·K) | 6.3 µin/(in·°F) |
| Electrical Resistivity | 71 µΩ·cm | 28 µΩ·in |
Mechanical Properties
AC (Air Cooled) Sate
| Property | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 1030 – 1480 MPa | 149 – 215 ksi |
| Yield Strength | 860 – 1000 MPa | 125 – 145 ksi |
| Brinell Hardness HBW | 190 – 230 | 190 – 230 |
| Rockwell Hardness HRC | 45 – 55 | 45 – 55 |
| Vickers Hardness HV | 200 – 250 | 200 – 250 |
| Elongation | 10 – 14 % | 10 – 14 % |
| Elastic Modulus | 210 GPa | 30.5 Msi |
QT (Quenched & Tempered) State
| Property | Metric Value | Imperial Value |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 1550 MPa | 224.8 ksi |
| Yield Strength | 1300 MPa | 188.5 ksi |
| Elongation | 12% | 12% |
| Reduction of Area | 45% | 45% |
| Impact Absorption Energy | 35 J | 25.8 ft-lb |
| Elastic Modulus | 210 GPa | 30.5 Mpsi |
Industries & Applications
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Automotive | Engine Components, Gears, Shafts, Tools |
| Aerospace | Turbine Blades, Fasteners, Bearings, Structural Components |
| Tool and Die | Molds, Dies, Punches, Cutting Tools |
| Manufacturing | Machine Parts, Press Tools, Jigs, Fixtures |
| Construction | Drill Bits, Cutters, Structural Supports, Fasteners |
| Electronics | Connectors, Terminals, Enclosures, Heat Sinks |
| Oil and Gas | Valves, Pumps, Drilling Equipment, Seals |
| Medical Devices | Surgical Instruments, Dental Tools, Orthopedic Implants, Biopsy Needles |
| Energy | Turbines, Generators, Power Tools, Heat Exchangers |
Machining
Heat Treatment
- Annealing: Heat H13 steel to 1550-1650°F, soak for 1 hour per inch of thickness, then cool slowly in the furnace at 20°F/hour to 1000°F, followed by air cooling.
- Stress Relieving: Heat to 1050-1250°F, soak for 1-2 hours, then cool in still air.
- Hardening: Preheat to 1200-1300°F and 1500-1600°F, then heat rapidly to 1800-1900°F, soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Quenching: Quench in still air, gas, or salt bath.
- Tempering: Temper at 1000-1150°F, soak for 2 hours per inch, repeat cycles to achieve 48-52 HRC hardness.
Surface Finish
- Pickling and Oiling: Remove the scale with hydrochloric acid and apply oil to prevent rust.
- Hot-Dip Galvanizing: Submerge in molten zinc for corrosion resistance.
- Electro-Galvanizing: Apply zinc via an electrochemical process for a smooth finish.
- Cold Rolling: Roll steel below recrystallization temperature for improved properties.
- Powder Coating: Apply dry powder and cure under heat for a durable finish.
- Painting: Apply liquid paint for protection and appearance enhancement.
*Customization is available upon request.
Disclaimer
The provided heat treatment and surface treatment processes are general guidelines. Actual conditions may vary depending on specific applications and requirements. It is recommended to consult with a professional metallurgist or material scientist to tailor the processes to your particular needs. The information herein is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.
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