Cold Work Tool Steel

D2 KNL Tool Steel

DIN 2379 · AISI D2 · AFNOR Z160CDV12 · X153CrMoV12

D2 KNL is a high-carbon, high-chromium, air-hardening cold work tool steel known for exceptional wear and abrasion resistance. A 12% ledeburitic chromium steel offering outstanding durability, edge retention, and treatment stability.

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D2 KNL Tool Steel — India to US

Grade Overview

D2 KNL Tool Steel — X153CrMoV12

D2 KNL is a high-carbon, high-chromium, air-hardening cold work tool steel known for exceptional wear and abrasion resistance. It is a 12% ledeburitic chromium steel offering outstanding wear resistance, durability, edge retention, and treatment stability.

D2 KNL can be nitrided after specialized heat treatment. When properly hardened, it maintains dimensional stability with minimal deformation and exhibits moderate corrosion resistance when polished and hardened.

Chemical Composition

D2 KNL Chemical Composition (%)

C	Si	Mn	P	S	Cr	Mo	V
1.50 - 1.60	0.10 - 0.40	0.15 - 0.45	0.03 max	0.03 max	11.0 - 12.0	0.60 - 0.80	0.90 - 1.10

Properties

Mechanical & Physical Properties

Mechanical Properties

Impact Toughness	77 J/cm²
Hardness	62–63 HRC
Poisson’s Ratio	0.27–0.30
Modulus of Elasticity	190–210 GPa

Thermal Expansion

Temperature Range	Coefficient
20–100°C	10.6 × 10⁻² m/(m·K)
20–200°C	11.5 × 10⁻² m/(m·K)
20–300°C	11.8 × 10⁻² m/(m·K)
20–400°C	12.3 × 10⁻² m/(m·K)

Thermal Conductivity

Temperature	W/(m·K)
20°C	16.7
350°C	20.5
700°C	24.2

Heat Treatment

Heat Treatment & Processes

Proper heat treatment ensures D2 KNL achieves optimal hardness and wear resistance.

Process	Temperature	Cooling	Result
Soft Annealing	840–870°C	Furnace	Max 250 HB
Stress-Relief Annealing	660–710°C	Furnace	—
Hardening	1000–1050°C	Air, oil, or salt bath (500–550°C)	63 HRC

Tempering Chart (after quenching)

Temp °C	100	200	300	400	500	525	550	600
HRC	64	61.5	58.5	58.5	59	60	57	50

Hardening Process

Preheat D2 at 750–800°C, then heat to 1000–1040°C for air cooling or 980°C for oil quenching. Soak for approximately 30 minutes per 25 mm of thickness. Avoid exceeding 1040°C during hardening.

Tempering & Stress Relieving

Temper immediately after hardening while still warm. Double tempering is recommended. Heat uniformly and soak for one hour per 25 mm of section. For stress relieving: heat to 600–650°C, soak thoroughly, cool slowly in furnace or air.