Selecting a mould steel requires more than comparing hardness. Plastic resin, mould size, expected cycles, surface finish, corrosion conditions and machining requirements all influence the correct material. For this reason,
International tool steel purchasing frequently involves several designation systems. A US drawing may specify AISI H13. A European buyer may call for DIN 1.2344. A Japanese specification may reference SKD61,
Tool steel is not a single material. It is a broad group of steels engineered for cutting, forming, stamping, forging, moulding and other applications where hardness, wear resistance, toughness or
H13 and 1.2714 can both be used in hot-working environments, but they should not be selected as interchangeable grades. Their strongest applications are different. H13 is known for its balanced
One of the biggest mistakes in tool steel selection is asking: “What is the hardest hot work tool steel?” A better question is: “How is my current die failing?” Hot
