H13
H13 is a widely-used hot work tool steel renowned for its exceptional combination of high-temperature strength, thermal shock resistance, and wear resistance. It is extensively employed in the production of hot work tools and dies subjected to elevated temperatures during operations like forging, extrusion, die casting, and hot stamping.
H13 steel has fair machinability in the annealed or normalized condition but becomes more difficult to machine after hardening and tempering. It has poor weldability due to its high carbon and alloy content. Preheating and post-weld heat treatment may be required to reduce the risk of cracking. H13 steel is standardized under ASTM A681, which covers the chemical composition, heat treatment, and mechanical properties of tool steels.