DIN 2344 · AISI H13 · AFNOR Z40CDV5 · X40CrMoV5
H13 is one of the most widely used hot-work tool steels across industries. A high-alloyed Cr-Mo-V steel known for excellent resistance to thermal shock, heat checking, and wear, combined with outstanding mechanical strength and toughness under high temperatures.
H13 is one of the most widely used hot-work tool steels across industries. It is a high-alloyed Cr-Mo-V steel known for excellent resistance to thermal shock, heat checking, and wear, combined with outstanding mechanical strength and toughness under high temperatures. Its composition—roughly 0.4% carbon, 5% chromium, 1.3% molybdenum, and 1% vanadium—enhances its ability to withstand high heat and mechanical stress.
H13 also provides reliable machinability and maintains hardness throughout processing. Typically supplied in annealed condition; also available pre-hardened (460–500 BHN).
ESR H13 offers enhanced toughness and superior micro-cleanliness compared to standard VD grades. Highly recommended for aluminum pressure die casting and extreme thermal/pressure conditions. All ESR H13 bars are 100% ultrasonic tested and meet NDT standards.
| C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cr | Mo | V |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.32 - 0.45 | 0.80 - 1.25 | 0.20 - 0.60 | 0.03 max | 0.03 max | 4.75 - 5.50 | 1.10 - 1.75 | 0.80 - 1.20 |
| Tensile Strength | 1550–2050 MPa |
| Yield Strength | 1000–1380 MPa |
| Elongation | 10–15% |
| Impact Toughness | 20–40 J/cm² |
| Hardness | 45–52 HRC |
| Compressive Strength | 2550 MPa |
| Elastic Modulus | 215 GPa |
| Temperature Range | Coefficient |
|---|---|
| 20–100°C | 10.8 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–210°C | 12.0 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–300°C | 12.4 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–400°C | 12.7 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–500°C | 13.1 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–600°C | 13.3 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| 20–700°C | 13.5 × 10⁻² m/(m·K) |
| Temperature | 20°C | 350°C | 700°C |
|---|---|---|---|
| W/(m·K) Annealed | 27.1 | 30.4 | 33.2 |
| W/(m·K) Quenched & Tempered | 25.4 | 27.7 | 30.4 |
Proper heat treatment ensures H13 achieves optimal hot hardness, toughness, and thermal fatigue resistance.
| Process | Temperature | Cooling | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Annealing | 760–810°C | Furnace | Max 240 HB |
| Stress-Relief Annealing | 610–660°C | Furnace | — |
| Hardening | 1030–1060°C | Air, oil, or salt bath (500–550°C) | 55 HRC |
| Temp °C | 100 | 210 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 550 | 600 | 650 | 700 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HRC | 54 | 53 | 53 | 55 | 56 | 54 | 51 | 43 | 34 |
Preheat to 816°C (1500°F), then raise to 1010°C (1850°F) for 15–40 minutes before air quenching. H13 has high hardenability and should be cooled in still air. For decarburization control, use salt bath or pack hardening in coke.
After quenching, temper at 500–650°C for 1–2 hours per cycle. Double tempering recommended; triple tempering for large sections. Quench rapidly in air, oil, or polymer medium.
Forging: Heat evenly to 1040–1095°C (1900–2000°F), reheat as necessary, stop forging below 900°C (1650°F). Cool slowly in furnace or dry ash. Always anneal post-forging.
Nitriding: Enhances surface hardness (1000–1250 HV) and corrosion resistance at 525°C post-hardening. ESR variant recommended for critical applications.
H13 tool steel is supplied in round bars of all standard and custom sizes.
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