Hot Work Tool Steel: Grades, Properties, Hardness, Heat Treatment & Applications
Hot work tool steel is designed for one purpose – to resist heat that would ruin common steel. It is the material behind the dies, molds, punches and blades that are hammered and squeezed and repeatedly heated and cooled – in die casting, forging, extrusion, hot stamping and hot shearing.
And what makes it different is easy to say and hard to engineer. It keeps its hardness, toughness, strength and dimensional stability, even when it’s hot. The most common grades you’ll come across are H13 (DIN 1.2344), H11 (DIN 1.2343) and DB6 (DIN 1.2714) — which one you need depends on your operating temperature, impact load, die size and how long you want the tool to last.
What Is Hot Work Tool Steel?
It’s an alloy tool steel for tools that get hot and cycle between hot and cold, again and again. It must be a combination of hot hardness, toughness, wear resistance, thermal-fatigue resistance and dimensional stability — all at the same time.
The Three Grades You Should Know:
- H13 / DIN 1.2344 – the go-to grade for die casting, aluminum extrusion and hot forging.
- H11 / DIN 1.2343 — good balance of toughness and hot strength, for forging and extrusion.
- DB6 / DIN 1.2714 – the choice for large forging dies, hammer dies and heavy-impact work where toughness is the most important property.
The final choice should always be based on the application and the steel maker’s datasheet, not on a general guide like this.
Hot work tool steel is a high-alloy steel for tooling operating at temperatures above about 200°C. Hot work grades are designed to resist the direct action of molten metal and hot workpieces, as opposed to cold-work steels, which are designed for cutting and forming at room temperature.
You will find it in aluminum and brass die-casting dies, forging dies, extrusion dies, hot shear blades, punches, mandrels, hot trimming dies, glass molds and copper alloy dies. It is their resistance to heat checking, deformation and softening that keeps these tools dimensionally stable and working reliably, cycle after cycle.
Popular Hot Work Tool Steel Grades
| Steel Grade | DIN Standard | Equivalent | Common Applications |
| H13 | 1.2344 | AISI H13 / JIS SKD61 | Die casting, forging, aluminium extrusion |
| H11 | 1.2343 | AISI H11 / JIS SKD6 | Forging dies, aluminium dies, extrusion |
| DB6 | 1.2714 | No exact AISI match; closest reference ~L6 | Hammer dies, press dies, forging dies |
| H21 | 1.2581 | AISI H21 | High-temperature tooling |
| H10 | 1.2365 | AISI H10 | Hot-work applications |
| H12 | 1.2606 | AISI H12 | Hot-work applications |
Mechanical Properties
| Property | H13 | DB6 |
| Density | 7.75–7.85 g/cm³ | 7.70–7.85 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | 1550–2100 MPa | High |
| Hardness | 44–54 HRC | 38–42 HRC (working); refer to supplier datasheet |
| Toughness | Excellent | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Thermal Fatigue Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
Chemical Composition
The alloying elements are what actually give hot work tool steel its personality — hardness, toughness, wear resistance and how it behaves under heat.
| Element | H13 (%) | DB6 (%) |
| Carbon (C) | 0.32–0.45 | 0.50–0.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.80–1.25 | 0.10–0.40 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.20–0.60 | 0.65–0.95 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 4.75–5.50 | 1.00–1.20 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.10–1.75 | 0.45–0.55 |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.80–1.20 | 0.07–0.12 |
| Nickel (Ni) | — | 1.50–1.80 |
Hardness (HRC Scale)
Hardness is usually the first thing buyers ask about and it is really a trade-off push hardness up and you get wear resistance but you risk giving up toughness and a tool that is too hard cracks before it wears out.
| Grade | Typical Working Hardness |
| H13 | 44–54 HRC |
| H11 | 42–50 HRC |
| DB6 (1.2714) | 38–42 HRC |
DB6 is designed for lower working hardness than H13 tool steels – it is selected for hammer and large forging dies because it sacrifices some wear resistance for superior toughness, so it is tempered back further to prevent cracking under heavy impact.
Tip: The right hardness is not the hardest, it is the one that works for your application and duty cycle. Always verify the exact range with the datasheet of your supplier, as this may differ with section size and delivery condition.
How Hot Work Tool Steel Is Made
Good performance from hot work tool steel is not just a matter of choosing the right grade on paper – it is a matter of how well the steel was melted, forged, heat treated and inspected along the way.
1. Raw Material Selection
Everything starts with the alloying mix, and each element earns its place:
| Element | Main Function |
| Carbon | Hardness and strength |
| Chromium | Wear resistance and hardenability |
| Molybdenum | High-temperature strength |
| Vanadium | Grain refinement and wear resistance |
| Nickel | Toughness |
| Silicon | Strength and heat resistance |
| Manganese | Strength and hardenability |
2. Smelting & Refining
The steel is melted in an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) and then further refined to the desired chemistry and cleanliness.
Ladle refining improves alloy composition, controls temperature and reduces contamination
Vacuum degassing removes dissolved gasses, mainly hydrogen, leading to better toughness, improved fatigue life, fewer internal defects and a more reliable material overall.
3. Electro-Slag Remelting (ESR)
ESR is a must when cleanliness and consistency counts. It provides a more homogeneous microstructure, better toughness and fatigue life, less segregation and a significantly improved polishability – which is why ESR grades are found in precision dies, high pressure die casting and plastic molds.
4. VAR (Vacuum Arc Remelting)
For the most demanding applications VAR takes purity one step further – lower inclusion levels, more uniform microstructure and better fatigue resistance.
5. Ingots casting
Molten steel is poured into ingots before forging, under controlled solidification conditions to minimize segregation and shrinkage.
6. Forging
Forging turns the cast ingot into dense blocks and bars by controlled heating and deformation. It increases the toughness, the grain structure, the internal flaws and gives more consistent mechanical properties to the material. Typical outputs are forged blocks, die blocks, round bars, flat bars and ESR blocks.
7. Annealing
Annealing is the process that softens the steel for machining and preparation for hardening — heat, soak evenly, then cool in a controlled fashion.
| Grade | Approx. Annealed Hardness |
| H13 | 190–230 HB |
| H11 | 180–230 HB |
| DB6 (1.2714) | 255 HB max |
Hardening is the method by which steel is given strength and wear resistance. It involves controlled pre-heating, austenitising, soaking and controlled cooling or quenching.
| Grade | Typical Austenitizing Range |
| H13 | 1,020–1,050°C |
| H11 | 1,000–1,030°C |
| DB6 (1.2714) | ~850–900°C (typical for this Ni-Cr-Mo grade; noticeably lower than the Cr-Mo-V H-series) |
DB6 is a lower alloy nickel chromium molybdenum steel and hardens at a substantially lower temperature than H13 or H11. Always stick to the manufacturer’s datasheet for the exact cycle – especially if you are working with large sections where getting this wrong is expensive.
9. Tempering
Tempering is done after hardening to reduce brittleness and to obtain the final balance between hardness and toughness. It relieves residual stress, increases toughness and helps dimensional stability. Depending on the grade, multiple cycles of tempering may be utilized.
Heat Treatment at a Glance
| Stage | Purpose |
| Annealing | Improve machinability |
| Stress Relieving | Reduce machining stresses |
| Hardening | Increase hardness and strength |
| Tempering | Improve toughness and stability |
| Final Inspection | Verify required properties |
10. Quality Inspection
The material is examined from every point of view before being shipped:
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) — identifies internal cracks, inclusions, laminations and shrinkage-related defects, especially important on large forged blocks.
Chemical composition testing – a spectrometer tests carbon, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, nickel, silicon, manganese, sulfur and phosphorus against the specified grade.
Hardness and dimensional inspection: Rockwell or Brinell testing, checks of length, width, thickness, flatness, squareness, straightness and surface finish.
11. MTC (Material Test Certificate)
An MTC links grade, heat number, chemical composition, mechanical properties, hardness, heat-treatment condition, inspection results and manufacturer details. It provides buyers with a paper trail they can verify.
| Document / Test | Purpose |
| MTC / EN 10204 3.1 | Material traceability and test results |
| UT Report | Internal quality verification |
| Spectrometer Report | Chemical composition |
| Hardness Report | Hardness verification |
| Heat Number | Batch traceability |
| Dimensional Report | Size verification |
Where Hot Work Tool Steel Is Used
Aluminum diecast molds H13 tool steel is the material of choice here because it can be repeatedly heated and cooled without losing dimensional stability – think engine blocks, gear housings, transmission components, pump bodies, LED housings and other automotive parts.
Hot-forging dies They are pounded by impact loads and heat, which is why DB6 and H11—valued for toughness and resistance to thermal cracking—are the usual choices. Common on crankshafts, connecting rods, railroad components and heavy engineering components.
Extrusion Dies High hot strength and wear resistance is needed to keep profiles – used for aluminum profiles, window frames, heat sinks and electrical conductors.
Brass and copper die cast. These alloys run hotter than aluminum so H13 and H11 earn their keep with better hot hardness.
Hot shear blades, for cutting red-hot blooms, billets and bars in rolling mills;
Hot punches, made for hot piercing, making and punching where wear and impact resistance both count.
Glass molds on the basis of thermal stability and resistance to heat checking.
Plastic mold parts: ESR H13 material tool preferred for polishability and wear resistance.
Industries That Rely on It
| Industry | Applications |
| Automotive | Die casting, forging |
| Aerospace | Forging tools |
| Defence | Heavy-duty dies |
| Railways | Forged components |
| Aluminium | Extrusion dies |
| Plastic Moulding | Mould inserts |
| Steel Plants | Hot shear blades |
| Heavy Engineering | Forging tools |
| Energy | Turbine & valve tooling |
Hot Work vs. Cold Work vs. Plastic Mould Steel
| Feature | Hot Work Tool Steel | Cold Work Tool Steel | Plastic Mould Steel |
| Primary Use | High-temperature tooling | Room-temperature cutting/forming | Plastic injection & moulding |
| Operating Temperature | High | Low to moderate | Low to moderate |
| Key Property | Hot hardness & thermal fatigue resistance | Wear resistance & hardness | Toughness, polishability & machinability |
| Important Grades | H13, H11, DB6 | D2, D3, EN31 | P20, P20+Ni, 1.2083 |
| Common Applications | Die casting, forging, extrusion | Dies, punches, blanking, shear blades | Injection moulds, plastic moulds |
| Typical Hardness | 44–54 HRC | 55–62 HRC | 28–52 HRC |
| Main Advantage | Retains strength at elevated temperatures | Excellent wear & edge retention | Good machinability and surface finish |
| Typical Industries | Automotive, forging, die casting | Tool & die, automotive, engineering | Plastic, packaging, automotive |
| Parameter | H13 | DB6 |
| Type | Chromium hot work steel | Nickel-chromium-molybdenum tool steel |
| Hardness | 44–54 HRC | 38–42 HRC |
| Toughness | Excellent | Outstanding |
| Wear Resistance | Higher | Moderate |
| Thermal Fatigue | Excellent | Very good |
| Large Dies | Good | Excellent |
| Forging Applications | Very good | Excellent |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Superior |
| Aluminium Die Casting | Excellent | Good |
H13/DB6 comparison table in die casting and extrusion; go with DB6 for large forging dies, hammer dies and heavy-impact work.
Advantages & Limitations
| Advantages | Limitations |
| Excellent hot hardness | Higher material cost |
| High thermal fatigue resistance | Needs proper heat treatment |
| Excellent toughness | Harder to machine once hardened |
| Good wear resistance | Limited corrosion resistance |
| Good machinability when annealed | Large sections need controlled processing |
| Excellent dimensional stability | |
| Long tool life |
How to Choose the Right Grade
1. Match the grade to the application.
| Application | Recommended Grade |
| Aluminium die casting | H13 (1.2344) |
| Brass die casting | H13 |
| Hot forging dies | H11 (1.2343) |
| Hammer dies | DB6 (1.2714) |
| Extrusion dies | H13 |
| Plastic mould inserts | ESR H13 |
| Large forging blocks | DB6 |
Get the size right. Think about how long it’s how wide it is, how thick it is, Think about length, width, thickness, weight, machining allowance, and expected dimensional change during heat treatment.. Available forms include forged blocks, round bars, flat bars, ESR blocks and pieces that are already cut to size.
Settle on a delivery condition with your supplier — annealed, pre-hardened, hardened and tempered, soft annealed, or stress relieved. With your supplier.
Check the quality before you make a decision. Ask for testing results, spectrometer reports, material test certificates, heat-number traceability and confirmation of surface finish, straightness and mechanical properties.
Plan the amounts you need based on prototypes, regular production, yearly use, extra stock and any growth that is coming up.
Choose a supplier who can support you. One that has stock, imported materials, forged and ESR blocks, fast delivery, technical help, certificates and custom machining.
Certifications Worth Looking For
| Certification | Purpose |
| ISO 9001 | Quality management system |
| EN 10204 3.1 | Material test certificate |
| Ultrasonic Testing (UT) | Detects internal defects |
| Spectrometer Analysis | Verifies chemical composition |
| Hardness Test Report | Confirms HRC/HB values |
| Heat Number Traceability | Tracks production batch |
Why Manufacturing Quality Matters
How the steel is made has a direct line to how it performs on the shop floor. Controlled melting, refining, forging, annealing, hardening, tempering and inspection are what separate a die that lasts from one that fails early — particularly in die casting, hot forging, aluminium extrusion and heavy-duty tooling, where the cost of a bad batch shows up fast.
Key Takeaways
- Controlled melting and refining keep the chemistry consistent.
- Forging improves structural uniformity and toughness.
- Annealing gets the material ready for machining.
- Hardening builds the strength and hardness.
- Tempering balances hardness against toughness.
- UT, chemical analysis, hardness testing and dimensional inspection confirm quality before shipping.
- MTCs and heat-number traceability give buyers the documentation they need.
Why Choose Virat Special Steels?
Virat Special Steels Pvt. Ltd. has been supplying manufacturers with quality imported tool steels for over 70 years.
- Over 70 years of industry experience.
- 3,500+ tons of tool steel in stock, ready to use
- Sourced from established international mills.
- “Wide grade range: H13, H11, DB6, D2, D3, P20, M2, M35, and ESR grades“.
- “Every order comes with an EN 10204 3.1 MTC”
- “UT and spectrometer testing on all material”
- “Cut-to-size and custom machining available”
- “Fast delivery across India”
- “Trusted by automotive, forging, aerospace, plastic moulding, railway, and heavy engineering customers”.
Our Supply Network Across India
We supply H13, DB6, H11, H12, H10 and H21 across major industrial hubs — Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad, Jaipur, agra, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Indore, Bhopal, Rudrapur , Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Jamshedpur, Secunderabad and Nellore — with standard and custom sizes, cut-to-size material, annealed or heat-treated condition, and material test certificates as required.
Conclusion
H13 and DB6 remain the two most dependable choices for high-temperature tooling, offering a solid mix of hardness, toughness, wear resistance, hot strength and thermal-fatigue resistance. Get the grade selection, heat treatment, machining and maintenance right, and both can deliver excellent tool life. We supply H13, DB6 and other tool steel grades across major industrial cities in India for a wide range of manufacturing needs.
Get a Quote
Looking for reliable H13, DB6 or other hot work tool steel? Virat Special Steels supplies round & flat bars, forged & rolled blocks, ESR/non-ESR blocks and cut-to-size material — complete with MTC, UT testing, spectro testing, custom machining, ready stock and PAN India delivery.
Call: +91-98140 21775 Email: info@viratsteels.com Locations: Gurgaon (Haryana) | Ludhiana (Punjab)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Hot Work Tool Steel?
Alloy steel for tools and dies exposed to high temperatures, thermal cycling, wear and mechanical stress.
2. What are the primary types?
Typical grades are H13, H11, H12, H10 and H21 – H13 tool is the most common.
3. H13 tool steel – what is it?
A hot work Cr-Mo-V grade that is known for its excellent hot strength, toughness, wear resistance and thermal-fatigue resistance.
4. What is the HRC of H13?
44-54 HRC depending on the application and heat treatment condition.
5. What is the maximum service temperature of H13?
Typically up to around 550–600°C, depending on load, thermal cycling and cooling conditions. Confirm the exact limit with your supplier’s datasheet.
6. Is H13 material good for high temperature applications?
Yes, it is used heavily where there is high heat and heating and cooling over and over again.
7. Can H13 be machined?
Yes, if annealed. It is much more difficult to machine once hardened.
8. How to Improve H13 Machinability?
Use proper cutting tools. Use appropriate speeds and feeds. Use adequate cooling. Machine in the annealed state where possible.
9. What is H13 used for?
Die casting dies, extrusion dies, forging dies, hot punches, mandrels and other similar hot work tooling.
10. H13 wear resistant?
Yes, if they are heat treated properly and matched to the proper operating conditions.
11. Is H13 hard enough?
Yes, gives a good balance of hardness and toughness which is what you need in demanding die work.
12. What is resistance to thermal fatigue?
It’s the ability of the steel to be heat cycled over and over again without heat checking or cracking.
13. Is H13 heat treatable?
Yes. Usually it is hardened and tempered so that it can obtain the desired hardness, toughness and hot strength.
14. Is H13 air hardenable?
Yes, which means it can achieve high hardness by means of appropriate heat treatment without a drastic quench.
15. Can H13 be used for nitriding?
Yes, nitriding can improve surface hardness, wear resistance and die life in suitable applications.
16. What is the chemical composition of H13?
Carbon, silicon, manganese, chromium, molybdenum and vanadium. Chromium, molybdenum and vanadium do most of the work.
17. What is the difference between H11 and H13?
Both are hot working grades but H13 tool steels gives generally a better combination of hot hardness, wear resistance, toughness and thermal-fatigue resistance.
18. What’s the difference between H13 and D2?
D2 is a cold-work grade built primarily for high wear resistance. H13 tool steel is a hot-work grade.
19. Is H13 tool steels appropriate for die casting dies?
Yes, it is widely used for aluminum, zinc and magnesium die casting because of its resistance to thermal fatigue and its hot strength.
20. Can H13 tool steels be used for hot extrusion die?
Yes, commonly used for extrusion dies, mandrels and related tooling.
DB6 Tool Steel Hardness (HRC): Complete Guide to Heat Treatment & Applications
DB6 Material Hardness in HRC
DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) is a widely used hot work tool steel for forging, die casting, heavy engineering and plastic mould industries. It offers an excellent balance of toughness, wear resistance, impact strength, and heat resistance, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.
Hardness of DB6 Tool Steel is an important factor that defines its performance properties, tool life, machinability and ability to resist deformation under high pressure and high temperature conditions. The right heat treatment to the correct Rockwell Hardness (HRC) will ensure optimum performance in forging dies, extrusion dies, hammer dies and pressure die casting application.
In this comprehensive guide, we cover DB6 Tool Steel hardness (HRC), heat treatment process, mechanical properties, applications, comparison with other tool steels, pricing considerations, and why Virat Steels is one of India’s trusted suppliers of premium-quality DB6 Tool Steel.
What is DB6 Steel?
DB6 Tool Steel is a high quality hot work tool steel, equivalent to DIN 1.2714, (AISI L6), (55NiCrMoV7). It is a nickel-chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy steel known for outstanding toughness and excellent resistance to thermal fatigue.
Compared to conventional hot work steels, DB6 provides:
- Superior impact strength
- High toughness
- Excellent wear resistance
- Good hardenability
- Outstanding resistance to cracking
- Longer die life
- Excellent polishability
- Good machinability
These characteristics make DB6 an ideal choice for large forging dies, hammer dies, die holders, extrusion tooling, pressure die casting dies, and heavy-duty industrial tools.
International Equivalents of DB6 Tool Steel
DB6 Tool Steel is internationally recognized under the DIN 1.2714 standard and is equivalent to EN 55NiCrMoV7. It is also considered an approximate equivalent to AISI L6 in certain applications. In India, DB6 is widely known by its trade name and is commonly used as a premium hot work tool steel for forging dies, die casting dies, extrusion tooling, and heavy engineering applications.
Chemical Composition of DB6 Tool Steel
DB6 Tool Steel contains a balanced combination of carbon, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and vanadium, providing excellent toughness, wear resistance, and hot strength. This alloy composition ensures superior impact resistance, good hardenability, and extended tool life in demanding hot work applications.
| Element | Composition (%) |
| Carbon (C) | 0.50–0.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.10–0.40 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.65–0.95 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 1.00–1.20 |
| Nickel (Ni) | 1.50–1.80 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.45–0.55 |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.07–0.12 |
Mechanical Properties of DB6 Tool Steel
DB6 Tool Steel offers an excellent combination of toughness, wear resistance, and heat resistance, making it ideal for high-impact and hot work applications such as forging and die casting.
| Property | Typical Value |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | High |
| Toughness | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent |
| Thermal Fatigue Resistance | Excellent |
DB6 Tool Steel Hardness (HRC)
Hardness is the most important property when selecting DB6 Tool Steel for industrial tooling.
Different hardness according to different Tempering temperature conditions.
– Annealed condition – 255 BHN max
– Hardened and Tempered condition- 38 to 42 HRC
annealed stock measures up to 255 BHN, standard mill-supply condition is tempered to 38–42 HRC for machining, and finished dies are re-hardened and tempered to a working hardness of 45–56 HRC depending on whether the application prioritizes toughness or wear resistance.
Heat Treatment of DB6 Tool Steel
Proper heat treatment is essential to achieve the desired hardness and mechanical properties.
The process generally involves:
- Annealing
- Stress Relieving
- Hardening
- Quenching
- Tempering
Each stage contributes to the final balance of hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability.
Annealing
Annealing softens the material, improves machinability, and relieves internal stresses before hardening.
Recommended Process:
- Heat slowly to 840–860°C
- Hold for sufficient soaking time
- Cool slowly inside the furnace
Resulting Hardness:
Approximately 220–250 HB
Stress Relieving
Stress relieving is recommended after rough machining.
- Temperature: 600–650°C
- Hold for 2 hours
- Furnace cool slowly
This minimizes distortion during final hardening.
Hardening
The hardening process significantly increases hardness and wear resistance.
Procedure:
- Preheat: 600 – 650°C
- Austenitize: 840–870°C
- Oil or polymer quench
- Air cooling where appropriate
The resulting hardness typically reaches 54–56 HRC before tempering.
Tempering
Tempering reduces brittleness while maintaining the desired hardness.
It is recommended to temper immediately after quenching.
Typical Tempering Range:
450–650°C
Double tempering is often recommended for improved dimensional stability and toughness.
Advantages of Proper Heat Treatment
By improving the mechanical properties and durability of the steel, proper heat treatment can improve the performance and service life of DB6 Tool Steel.
- Enhanced wear resistance
- Greater durability
- Improved thermal fatigue resistance
- Less risk of cracking
- Longer life of die
- Reduced maintenance costs
Applications of DB6 Tool Steel
DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) is a popular choice for hot work applications requiring high toughness, wear resistance and resistance to thermal fatigue. It is ideal for the manufacture of heavy duty dies and tools used under extreme operating conditions.
| Industry | Typical Applications |
| Forging | Closed forging dies, hammer dies |
| Die Casting | Aluminium die casting dies |
| Extrusion | Extrusion dies |
| Automotive | Crankshaft and connecting rod dies |
| Plastic Moulding | Large mould bases |
| Heavy Engineering | Die holders and forging blocks |
| Aerospace & Defence | Heavy-duty tooling |
| Steel Plants | Hot shearing blades and press tools |
DB6 Tool Steel Advantages & Disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Good impact resistance and toughness | More expensive than the usual alloy steels |
| Good wear and heat fatigue resistance | Needs proper heat treatment |
| Longer die life with less cracking | Not the best choice for high abrasive cold work applications (D2 is preferred) |
| Good hardenability and dimensional stability | Special tools are required for machining after hardening |
| Suitable for large forging dies, hot working tools | Material costs are higher for more expensive alloys |
DB6 vs H13 Tool Steel Comparison
| Property | DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) | H13 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2344) |
| Steel Type | Hot Work Tool Steel | Hot Work Tool Steel |
| Toughness | Excellent | Very Good |
| Wear Resistance | Very Good | Excellent |
| Impact Resistance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Thermal Fatigue Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Hot Hardness | Very Good | Excellent |
| Best Applications | Forging Dies, Hammer Dies | Die Casting & Extrusion Dies |
| Large Die Blocks | Excellent | Very Good |
| Relative Cost | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Best Choice: Choose DB6 for heavy-impact forging applications requiring superior toughness, while H13 is ideal for high-temperature die casting and aluminium extrusion tooling.
DB6 vs H11 Tool Steel
| Property | DB6 | H11 |
| Toughness | Excellent | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance | Higher | Good |
| Hardness | 45–56 HRC | 44–52 HRC |
| Thermal Shock | Excellent | Excellent |
| Large Blocks | Excellent | Good |
| Service Life | Longer | Good |
Best Choice: DB6 is preferred where higher wear resistance and longer tool life are required.
DB6 vs D2 Tool Steel
| Property | DB6 | D2 |
| Type | Hot Work | Cold Work |
| Toughness | Excellent | Moderate |
| Wear Resistance | High | Very High |
| Hot Strength | Excellent | Poor |
| Impact Resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Forging Dies | Excellent | Not Recommended |
| Cold Blanking | Not Ideal | Excellent |
Best Choice: Use DB6 for hot work and D2 for cold work applications.
DB6 vs P20 Tool Steel
| Property | DB6 | P20 |
| Toughness | Excellent | Good |
| Hardness | Up to 56 HRC | 28–34 HRC |
| Plastic Moulds | Good | Excellent |
| Forging | Excellent | Not Recommended |
| Wear Resistance | High | Moderate |
| Tool Life | Longer | Moderate |
DB6 vs EN31
| Property | DB6 | EN31 |
| Steel Type | Hot Work Tool Steel | High Carbon Steel |
| Toughness | Excellent | Moderate |
| Hardness | 56 HRC | 60–64 HRC |
| Impact Resistance | Excellent | Low |
| Hot Applications | Excellent | Poor |
| Bearings | Not Suitable | Excellent |
DB6 Tool Steel vs Other Tool Steel Grades
| Steel Grade | Toughness | Wear Resistance | Heat Resistance | Typical Hardness | Ideal Applications |
| DB6 (DIN 1.2714) | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | 45–56 HRC | Forging Dies , Hammer Dies |
| H13 (DIN 1.2344) | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | 44–54 HRC | Die Casting, Extrusion Dies |
| H11 (DIN 1.2343) | Excellent | Good | Very Good | 44–52 HRC | Hot Work & Extrusion Tooling |
| D2 (DIN 1.2379) | Good | Excellent | Moderate | 58–62 HRC | Cold Work Dies, Punches |
| P20 (DIN 1.2311) | Good | Moderate | Moderate | 28–34 HRC | Plastic Injection Moulds |
| EN31 | Moderate | Excellent | Low | 60–64 HRC | Bearings, Rollers & Wear Parts |
“DB6 Tool Steel Equivalents Explained: SKT4, 55NiCrMoV7, L6 & DIN 1.2714 Compared”
| Property | DB6 | SKT4 | 55NiCrMoV7 | L6 | DIN 1.2714 |
| Standard | Commercial | JIS | EN | AISI | DIN |
| Steel Type | Hot Work | Hot Work | Hot Work | Low Alloy | Hot Work |
| Toughness | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Hardness | 45–56 HRC | 45–54 HRC | 45–56 HRC | 45–55 HRC | 45–56 HRC |
| Hot Work Performance | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent |
| Main Difference | Trade Name | JIS Grade | EN Grade | Approx. Equivalent | DIN Grade |
DB6, DIN 1.2714, and 55NiCrMoV7 are essentially the same steel grade with different designations. SKT4 is a close Japanese equivalent, while AISI L6 is an approximate equivalent with similar toughness but comparatively lower hot-work performance.
Available Sizes of DB6 Tool Steel
Virat Special Steels supplies DB6 Tool Steel in a wide range of standard and custom sizes to meet the requirements of die makers, tool rooms, automotive, engineering, and precision manufacturing industries.
Available Sizes (Flat)
- Thickness: 13 mm – 1500 mm
- Width: 13 mm – 3000 mm
- Length: Available in standard mill lengths or custom-cut sizes on request.
Available Sizes (Round)
- Diameter: 13 mm – 1500 mm
- Length: Standard mill lengths and customized cut-to-size options available.
Custom Processing Services
To minimize machining time and material wastage, we also offer:
- Precision cut-to-size material
- Bandsaw cutting
- Surface machining (on request)
- Bulk supply with batch-wise traceability
- Material Test Certificate (MTC) and EN 10204 3.1 certification (where applicable)
DB6 Case Study 40% Improvement in Die Life in Forging
Operations Customer Challenge
A drop-forging plant for automotive components experienced premature die cracking of crankshaft forging dies made from standard hot work steels leading to expensive downtime.
Solution
The tooling was upgraded to DB6 (DIN 1.2714) supplied by Virat Special Steels, vacuum heat treated and double tempered to an optimized 46-48 HRC.
Results
40% increased die service life Eliminate catastrophic die cracking in high energy impact Lower maintenance and machine downtime Forged at a lower cost per part
Certifications Available
Reputable suppliers typically provide:
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC)
- Ultrasonic Tested Material
- Hardness Test Report
- Chemical Test Report
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Appropriate DB6 Tool Steel
Some important points to consider before buying DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) to get the best out of your application:
1. Choose the Right Hardness
Pick the hardness for your application:
- 38-42 HRC – Greater toughness and impact resistance
- 50-56 HRC – Increased wear resistance and extended tool life
2. Choose the required form of material
DB6 Tool Steel is supplied in:
- Forged and Rolled blocks
- Round and Flat Bars
- ESR and Non ESR Blocks
3. Material Quality Inspection
Always ask for:
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC) Ultrasonic Tested Material
- Material Traceability Spectro Tested Material
4. Match the App
Select DB6, depending on your tooling needs, such as:
- Forging Dies
- Hammer Dies
- Extrusion
- Holders for
- Casting Dies
5. Select a Trusted Supplier
Join hands with a supplier who can support with ready stock, custom machining, technical support and PAN India delivery for consistent quality and timely supply.
Why purchase DB6 Tool Steel from Virat Steels?
Selecting the right supplier is critical to maximizing tool life, performance and productivity. With over 70 years of experience in the industry, Virat Steels is one of the trusted suppliers of high quality imported and domestic tool steels in India with more than 2000 customers in the automotive, forging, die casting, aerospace, plastic mould, heavy engineering, railways and defence industries.
Why do manufacturers trust us?
- 70+ Years Experience supplying quality tool steels.
- 2,000+ Happy Customers in India’s Manufacturing Industry.
- Supplier of Materials from Reputed International Mills for consistent quality and performance.
- Tool Steel Ready Stock: DB6, H13, H11, D2, D3, P20, P20+Ni, M2, M35, EN31, OHNS and other grades.
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC) with full traceability of material.
- UT Tested & Spectro Tested Material for proven quality and internal soundness.
- Custom Cutting & Machining Services to suit your required sizes.
- Material Selection Assistance from experienced technical professionals.
- Fast PAN India Delivery, timely supply & reduced production downtime.
Virat Steels offers authentic quality, certified material and dependable service for all your tool steel needs. Whether DB6 Round Bars, Forged Blocks, ESR Blocks, Flat Blocks or Cut-to-size Material, we have it all.
Our Supply Network Across India
Virat Steels is one of the leading suppliers of DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) to the manufacturers in the major industrial hubs of India like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Belgaum, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hosur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Faridabad, Manesar, Bhiwadi, Gurugram, Delhi NCR, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab and Jamshedpur.
Our strong logistics network, ready stock and technical knowledge enable us to provide fast PAN India delivery to forging companies, die makers, tool rooms, plastic mould manufacturers, die casting industries and heavy engineering businesses.
Conclusion
DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714) is a high-performance hot work tool steel, known for its excellent toughness, wear resistance and thermal fatigue resistance. Proper heat treatment gives it hardness in the range of 45–56 HRC and makes it ideal for forging dies, extrusion tooling, die casting dies, and other demanding industrial applications.
Virat Steels is your trusted partner for premium quality DB6 Tool Steel with 70+ years of experience, 2000+ customers, ready stock, MTC, UT & Spectro Tested materials and PAN India delivery.
Call us or send your drawing to receive a customised material recommendation.
Request a Quote
Looking for premium-quality DB6 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2714)?
Virat Steels supplies DB6 Round and Flat Bars & Forged and Rolled Blocks, ESR /non ESR Blocks, Cut-to-Size Material with:
- ✔ 70+ Years of Industry Experience
- ✔ 2,000+ Satisfied Customers
- ✔ Ready Stock
- ✔ MTC Available
- ✔ UT Tested Material
- ✔ Spectro Tested Material
- ✔ Custom Machining
- ✔ PAN India Delivery
Contact Virat Steels today for technical guidance and a customized quotation for your DB6 Tool Steel requirements.
Download PDF:
https://www.viratsteels.com/downloads/DB6_vs_H13_H11_D2_Comparison.pdf
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qf8SFJDCtlE
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5hnQ_qp3WsA
Call us: +91-98140 21775 Email: info@viratsteels.com Visit us: Gurgaon (Haryana) | Ludhiana (Punjab)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the working hardness of DB6 steel?
DB6 steel is typically tempered to a working hardness of 44–50 HRC depending on the forging application.
2. Is DB6 a hot work or cold work tool steel?
DB6 (DIN 1.2714) is a premium hot work alloy tool steel containing Nickel, Chromium, Molybdenum, and Vanadium.
3. What is the annealed hardness of DB6?
In annealed condition, DB6 has a hardness of 220–250 HB (Brinell Hardness) for easy machining.
4. What is the hardening temperature for DB6?
The recommended hardening (austenitizing) temperature is 840–870°C followed by oil, polymer, or air quenching.
5. How many tempering cycles are required for DB6?
At least two tempering cycles (double tempering) are required to relieve stress and stabilize the micro-structure.
6. Is DB6 equivalent to D2 or SKD11?
No. DB6 is a hot work steel (1.2714). D2 / SKD11 (1.2379) is a cold work steel used for cold punching and blanking.
7. What is the DIN equivalent of DB6?
The exact DIN equivalent is DIN 1.2714 (55NiCrMoV7) (L6).
8. What makes DB6 tough?
The presence of 1.50–1.80% Nickel (Ni) gives DB6 exceptional core toughness and resistance to impact cracking.
9. Can DB6 be used for blanking dies?
No, cold blanking requires cold work steels like D2 or DC53. DB6 is engineered for hot forging and high-impact dies.
10. What industries rely on DB6 tool steel?
Drop forging, press forging, automotive component manufacturing, heavy engineering, and defense.
11. Is pre-hardened DB6 available?
Yes, DB6 is often supplied in a pre-hardened condition (~35–40 HRC) for direct die cavity machining.
12. Can DB6 steel be welded?
Welding DB6 is difficult due to its high hardenability. Preheating to 300–400°C and post-weld stress relief are essential if welding is necessary.
13. Why does DB6 outperform H13 in drop forging hammer dies?
DB6 has higher Nickel content, offering superior impact energy absorption compared to H13, preventing die shattering under heavy hammer blows.
14. Why is stress relieving important before hardening DB6?
It removes machining stresses, preventing warping and dimensional movement during quenching.
15. What quality reports come with DB6 from Virat Special Steels?
Material Test Certificate (EN 10204 3.1), Ultrasonic Testing (UT) report, and Hardness/Chemical test reports.
16. Does DB6 resist thermal fatigue?
Yes, its balanced Cr-Ni-Mo composition gives high resistance to heat checking (thermal fatigue).
17. What supply forms are available for DB6?
Round bars, flat blocks, forged blocks, and custom cut plates.
18. What is the primary advantage of DB6?
High impact toughness combined with excellent hardenability across large block sizes.
19. What should buyers check before buying DB6?
Ensure ultrasonic soundness (UT testing) to prevent internal defects in large die blocks.
20. Why choose Virat Special Steels for DB6?
Extensive stock, certified quality, precision cutting facilities, quick delivery, and decades of technical expertise.
H13 vs H11 Tool Steel – Complete Comparison (Properties, Hardness, Applications, Price & Selection Guide)
H13 vs H11 Tool Steel, Which One Should You Choose?
Walk into any tool room, forging shop, or die manufacturing unit in India, and you’ll hear the same debate.
“Should this die be made from H13 or H11?”
At first glance, both steels look nearly the same. They are both part of the Hot Work Tool Steel family, contain chromium and molybdenum, and are built to perform in extreme temperatures. However, choosing the wrong material can significantly decrease die life.
- Choose H13 where H11 should have been used, and the die may crack under repeated impact.
- Choose H11 where H13 belongs, and excessive wear can shorten production life.
This complete guide explains everything you need to know before selecting either grade.
You’ll learn about:
- H13 vs H11 Chemical Composition
- Hardness Comparison
- Mechanical Properties
- Heat Treatment
- Price Comparison
- Tool Life
- Equivalent Grades
- Applications
- Availability in India
- Supplier Selection Guide
- 25+ Frequently Asked Questions
H13 vs H11 Tool Steel – Quick Comparison
| Property | H13 (DIN 1.2344 / SKD61) | H11 (DIN 1.2343 / SKD6) |
| Main Strength | Excellent wear resistance and hot hardness | Great toughness and impact resistance |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Toughness | Very Good | Excellent |
| Hot Hardness | Excellent | Very Good |
| Resistance to Thermal Fatigue | Excellent | Very Good |
| Shock/Impact resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Machinability (Annealed) | Better | Moderate |
| Maximum Working Hardness | Up to 54 HRC | Up to 52 HRC |
| Typical Working Hardness | 44–48 HRC | 42–46 HRC |
| Best Suited For | Die Casting, Extrusion Dies, Plastic Moulds | Forging Dies, Hammer Dies, Fastener Tooling |
| Relative Tool Life | Longer in wear-intensive applications | Longer in impact-intensive applications |
| Relative Cost | 10–20% Higher | More Economical |
| Best Choice When | Heat, wear and long production runs are the priority | High impact, shock loading and toughness are the priority |
What is H13 Tool Steel?
H13 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2344, SKD61) is one of the world’s most widely used chromium hot work tool steels.
Its high vanadium content forms extremely hard carbides that improve:
- Wear resistance
- Hot hardness
- Heat checking resistance
- Tool life
- Surface finish
This makes H13 the preferred steel for:
- Aluminium Die Casting Dies
- Zinc Die Casting
- Plastic Injection Moulds
- Extrusion Dies
- Hot Shear Blades
- Forging Punches
What is H11 Tool Steel?
H11 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2343, SKD6) is also a Hot Work Tool Steel, but with a lower vanadium content.
The lower carbide volume gives H11:
- Better toughness
- Better impact resistance
- Better crack resistance
- Easier machining
It is commonly selected for:
- Hammer Dies
- Forging Dies
- Fastener Tooling
- Hand Tool Dies
- Heavy Stamping
Comparison of Chemical Composition H13 vs H11 Tool Steel
| Element | H13 (DIN 1.2344) | H11 (DIN 1.2343) |
| Carbon | 0.32–0.45% | 0.33–0.43% |
| Chromium | 4.75–5.50% | 4.75–5.50% |
| Molybdenum | 1.10–1.75% | 1.10–1.60% |
| Vanadium | 0.80–1.20% | 0.30–0.50% |
| Silicon | 0.80–1.20% | 0.80–1.20% |
| Manganese | 0.20–0.50% | 0.20–0.50% |
Main Difference:
The H13 with higher vanadium content has much better wear resistance and longer tool life.
Mechanical Property Comparison
| Property | H13 | H11 |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Toughness | Good | Excellent |
| Hot Hardness | Excellent | Good |
| Thermal Fatigue | Excellent | Very Good |
| Heat Checking Resistance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Machinability | Moderate | Better |
| Polishability | Excellent | Good |
Hardness Comparison
| Condition | H13 | H11 |
| Annealed | 180–220 HB | 180–220 HB |
| Working Hardness | 44–52 HRC | 42–50 HRC |
| Maximum Practical Hardness | 54 HRC | 52 HRC |
Heat Treatment Process
1. Preheating (650–750°C)
2. Austenitizing
o H13: 1010-1025 °C
3. Air, Oil, or Vacuum Quenching
4. Double or Triple Tempering (550-650 °C)
Vacuum heat treatment is recommended for precision dies to minimise distortion.
One of the most asked questions from buyers is:
“What’s the cheapest steel?
Generally,
Why?
- Higher Vanadium content
- Better wear resistance
- Longer production life
- Higher performance in die casting applications
Although the initial purchase price is higher, H13 often delivers a lower cost per component because of its longer service life.
Price depends on:
- ESR or Conventional Grade
- Forged or Rolled Material
- Imported or Domestic Mill
- Size
- Heat Treatment
- Quantity
No fixed market price exists, so always request a quotation based on current stock.
H13 vs H21
| Feature | H13 | H21 |
| Toughness | Better | Lower |
| Hot Hardness | Excellent | Outstanding |
| Wear Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Typical Use | Die Casting | Hot Forging & Extreme Heat |
H13 vs DIN 1.2367
| Property | H13 | 1.2367 |
| Toughness | Excellent | Higher |
| Hot Strength | Excellent | Excellent |
| Large Forging Dies | Good | Better |
There is virtually no practical difference. SKD61 is the Japanese JIS designation equivalent to AISI H13 and DIN 1.2344. Selection should focus on material quality, cleanliness, ESR option, testing, and supplier reliability rather than the grade designation alone.
H13 vs DB6
| Feature | H13 | DB6 |
| Type | Hot Work | Hot Work |
| Toughness | Excellent | Very High |
| Nickel Content | No | Yes |
| Large Forging Dies | Good | Excellent |
| Heavy Impact | Good | Better |
Tool Life Comparison
| Application | Better Grade |
| Die Casting | H13 |
| Extrusion | H13 |
| Plastic Moulds | H13 |
| Hammer Dies | H11 |
| Forging Dies | H11 |
| Heavy Impact Tools | H11 |
H13 & H11 Equivalent Grades
H13 and H11 are common hot work tool steels, but they have different names depending on the international standard used. Use the table below to identify the equivalent grades used in different countries.
| Standard | H13 Equivalent | H11 Equivalent |
| AISI (USA) | H13 | H11 |
| DIN / EN (Germany) | 1.2344 / X40CrMoV5-1 | 1.2343 / X38CrMoV5-1 |
| JIS (Japan) | SKD61 | SKD6 |
Sizes Available
H13 (DIN 1.2344 / SKD61) and H11 (DIN 1.2343 / SKD6) tool steel are available in a wide range of sizes to suit different tooling applications.
| Product Form | Available Sizes |
| Round Bars | Ø13 mm to Ø500+ mm |
| Flat Bars | Thickness: 20–305 mm, Width: 50–600 mm |
| Cut-to-Size Blocks | As per customer drawing and specifications |
Custom sizes and large forged sections can also be supplied based on project requirements.
| Property | Conventional | ESR |
| Cleanliness | Good | Excellent |
| Inclusion Level | Higher | Lower |
| Polishability | Good | Excellent |
| Fatigue Life | Better | Best |
| Tool Life | Longer | Longest |
ESR H13 is recommended for premium die casting and mould applications requiring maximum reliability.
Industries Using H13
- Aluminium Die Casting
- Zinc Die Casting
- Plastic Injection Moulding
- Extrusion
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Pressure Die Casting
- Hot Shear Blades
Industries Using H11
- Forging
- Hammer Dies
- Fastener Manufacturing
- Hand Tools
- Heavy Engineering
- Structural Components
Why Buy H13 or H11 from Virat Steels?
Virat Steels has been supplying premium tool steels to Indian manufacturers for 70+ years.
Why customers choose Virat Steels
- 70+ Years of Experience
- 2000+ Industrial Customers
- Supplier of material from reputed international mills
- Ready Stock Available
- Mill Test Certificate (MTC)
- UT Tested Material
- Spectro Tested Material
- PAN India Delivery
- Custom Cutting
- Fast Dispatch
- Technical Material Recommendation
Whether you’re looking to Buy H13 Steel, Buy H11 Steel, DIN 1.2344, DIN 1.2343, SKD61, SKD6, ESR H13, or Forged H13 Blocks, our team can recommend the right material based on your application
Our Supply Network Across India
Virat Steels is a trusted supplier of Hot Work Tool Steel to customers across the major industrial hubs of India including Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Belgaum, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hosur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Faridabad, Manesar, Bhiwadi, Gurugram, Delhi NCR, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Jamshedpur.
Our strong logistic network and efficient distribution system enable us to ensure timely PAN India dispatch to meet the requirement of tool rooms, die manufacturers, forging industries and engineering companies across the country.
- H13 Tool Steel
- H11 Tool Steel
- DIN 1.2344 Tool Steel
- DIN 1.2343 Tool Steel
- ESR Tool Steel
- Plastic Mould Steel
- Hot Work Tool Steel
- Forged Tool Steel Blocks
Download Free PDF:
H13 vs H11 Tool Steel Comparison Guide
https://www.viratsteels.com/downloads/h13-vs-h11-comparison.pdf
Request a Quote
Searching for the right Hot Work Tool Steel?
Our technical team can suggest the correct grade for your application whether you require H13, H11, DIN 1.2344, DIN 1.2343, SKD61, SKD6, ESR H13 or Forged H13 Blocks.
Request a Quote Today
✔ Material Recommendation
✔ Ready Stock
✔ MTC Available
✔ UT Tested
✔ Spectro Tested
✔ PAN India Delivery
Call us or send your drawing to receive a customised material recommendation.
Call us: +91-98140 21775 Email: info@viratsteels.com Visit us: Gurgaon (Haryana) | Ludhiana (Punjab)
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the difference between H11 and H13 tool steel?
H11 is tougher and more impact resistant while H13 has more wear resistance, hot hardness and resistance to thermal fatigue.
2. Which steel is best for aluminum die casting dies?
H13 is generally preferred as it has a longer die life and is more resistant to heat checking.
3. What grade is recommended for hot forging dies?
H11 is often chosen for heavy-impact forging work and H13 is appropriate for moderate-impact forging applications.
4. What are the common industries that use H11 and H13 tool steel?
These grades are widely used in die casting, forging, extrusion, automobile, aerospace, plastic molding and general engineering industry.
5. What is the working temperature range of H13 tool steel?
H13 has good strength and hardness up to about 600°C and is used for hot working.
6. Is H11 impact strength better than H13?
Yes. H11 has a lower vanadium content which makes it tougher and more resistant to impact loading.
7. Which tool steel has better dimensional stability in heat treatment?
H13 generally has better dimensional stability when properly heat treated.
8. Is it possible to nitride H11 and H13?
Yes. Both grades can be nitrided to increase surface hardness and wear resistance.
9. What is the best grade for extrusion tooling?
H13 is most often recommended for aluminum extrusion dies as it has the best hot strength and wear resistance.
10. Are H11 and H13 available on forged blocks?
Yes. Both grades are available as forged blocks, rounds, flats and in customer specific sizes.
11. What inspections are performed before dispatch?
Material usually comes with Spectro Test Reports, Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Material Test Certificates (MTC), and hardness testing if requested.
12. Can H11 and H13 be supplied in pre-hardened condition?
Yes. Based on customer needs, both grades can be offered annealed, pre-hardened, or heat-treated.
13. Which grade is easier to polish?
H13 generally provides an excellent polished finish, making it good for high-quality tooling applications.
14. Are H11 and H13 suitable for plastic mould applications?
Yes. H13 is commonly used for plastic moulds that work at high temperatures or need great wear resistance.
15. What shapes are available in H11 and H13 tool steel?
These grades come in round bars, flat bars, square bars, forged blocks, plates, and custom-cut sizes.
16. How do I choose between H11 and H13?
The choice depends on the application. Use H11 for maximum toughness, and H13 for better wear resistance and a longer service life.
17. What surface finish options are available?
Materials are available in black, peeled, rough machined, bright, or fully machined condition based on customer needs.
18. Can custom sizes be supplied?
Yes. Custom dimensions and cut-to-size materials are available to reduce machining time and material waste.
19. What certifications are available with the material?
Materials can come with Mill Test Certificates (MTC), chemical composition reports, mechanical property reports, and UT inspection certificates.
20. Does Virat Steels offer technical support in selecting tool steel?
Yes. Our technical team helps customers choose the right grade based on the application, operating temperature, and service conditions.
21. Does Virat Steels deliver across India?
Yes. We provide fast and dependable delivery across India to major industrial cities and manufacturing hubs.
22. How can I place an order with Virat Steels?
Just share your required grade, dimensions, quantity, or technical drawing with our sales team. We will recommend the right material, offer technical guidance, and provide a competitive quote.
Why Manufacturers Across India Choose Virat Steels as Their Trusted Tool Steel Supplier
Importance of the Right Tool Steel Supplier
In the current competitive environment, the quality of Tool Steel Supplier plays an important role when it comes to efficiency in production, quality of the product, and cost of the operations. It really does not matter if you are working with cars or airplanes or making parts or doing precise engineering work. What is important is that you have a company that supplies the right kind of steel tools.
Virat Special Steels Pvt Ltd has been doing this work for over 68 years. We have been supplying quality steel tools to people who make cars, airplanes and other things. We know the problems that people face when they are trying to choose the kind of steel tool, for their work. We are a company that people trust to supply steel tools in India. We give our customers quality materials and also help them with technical problems. We have steel tools to be delivered and we can also cut them to the size that our customers need. We deliver our tools over the country on time. This helps our customers to work waste less time and get good results.
1. Extensive Portfolio of PremiumTool Steel Supplier Grades
There is an extensive portfolio of different grades of tool steel Supplier available at Virat Steels, appropriate for varied industrial uses.
The list includes the following:
2. Premium Quality Tool Steel Supplier You Can Rely On
Quality forms the basis of all products manufactured by Virat Steels.
Every steel alloy is selected, tested, and inspected for the following qualities:
• Hardness
• Wear Resistance
• Toughness
• Tolerance
• Machinability
Manufacturers get products which perform reliably in difficult conditions of manufacture.
3. Ready Stocks Available for Quicker Deliveries
Production delays usually happen when there is a lack of raw materials.
Having ready stocks means that Virat Steels will be able to supply its clients with the necessary tool steel Supplier grades without any delay.
Advantages include:
• Downtime reduction
• Project completion
• Better stock control
• Better scheduling
4. Custom Cutting & Sizing
Each manufacturing company has its own material needs. The Virat Steels offer:
• Custom-cutting services
• Sizes as per the requirement
• Machine-ready sizes
• Bulk availability
This minimizes wastage on the machine and saves time for customers.
5. Technical Competence and Materials Information
Choosing the right grade of tool steel Supplier may not be an easy task always.
The skilled and knowledgeable professionals from Virat Steels assist clients by advising on the most appropriate material considering the following factors:
• Application
• Heat-treating needs
• Wear resistance
• Toughness
• Machinability requirements
• Economic considerations
6. Price Competitiveness without Sacrificing Quality
Producers are always trying to find that delicate balance between the two.
Virat Steels delivers:
• Market competitive rates
• High value products
• Value-for-money materials
Customers get high-end steel within their procurement budget.
7. Industries That Trust Virat Steels
Virat Steels provides services to various industrial sectors such as:
• Automobile Manufacturing
• Plastic Injection Moulding
• Forging Sector
• Manufacturing of Dies and Moulds
• Engineering Workshops
• Aerospace Parts
• Machine Tools Manufacturing
• Precision Engineering
• Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
The capability of serving different sectors highlights their level of professionalism.
8. Fast Tool Steel Supplier Delivery Across India
Indian manufacturers need timely deliveries to keep their operations running smoothly and efficiently.
Virat Steels have an effective supply chain system in place which allows quick deliveries in industrial towns and manufacturing centres. They offer a reliable logistics system that guarantees on-time material delivery.
9. Building Strong Customer Relationships
Virat Steels does not concentrate only on transactions; rather, it builds strong relationships.
Customer needs include:
• Quick communication
• Professional assistance
• Readily available products
• Post sales support
• Long term relationship
This customer first approach has helped create a loyal clientele across India.
10. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Technology in manufacturing continues to develop, while material demands increase.
Virat Steels keeps abreast of changes in industry through:
• Evolving product line
• Quality assurance
• Better inventory control
• Exceptional customer service
• Efficient supply chain
How Premium Tool Steel Supplier Benefits Manufacturers?
| Manufacturing Challenge | How Virat Steels Helps |
| Production delays | Ready stock and reliable dispatch |
| Incorrect material selection | Technical guidance for grade selection |
| Excess machining | Custom-cut and machine-ready sizes |
| Frequent tool replacement | Premium-quality tool steel designed for demanding applications |
| Procurement delays | Reliable pan-India supply network |
Why Manufacturers Choose Virat Steels
Manufacturers across India choose Virat Steels because we combine high-quality tool steel Supplier with dependable service and technical expertise. Our customers benefit from:
• Premium-quality tool steel
• Wide range of steel grades
• Competitive pricing
• Fast delivery across India
• Custom cutting services
• Expert technical guidance
• Reliable stock availability
• Trusted industry experience
• Excellent customer support
• Long-term supply partnership
| Feature | Virat Steels | Typical Supplier |
| Tool Steel Supplier Grades | Wide range of premium grades | Limited availability |
| Stock Availability | Ready stock for quick dispatch | May require longer lead times |
| Custom Cutting | ✓ Available | Not always available |
| Technical Guidance | Expert material selection support | Limited technical assistance |
| Delivery | Reliable pan-India delivery | Varies by supplier |
| Industries Served | Automotive, Aerospace, Die & Mould, Forging, Precision Engineering | May focus on fewer industries |
| Customer Support | Dedicated and responsive | Varies |
Conclusion
Looking for a trusted Tool Steel Supplier in India ?
No matter where your business is located—North, South, East, or West—Virat Special Steels is here to support your manufacturing needs with premium-quality tool steel Supplier .
From dies and moulds to cutting tools and precision engineering applications, we supply high-performance tool steel Supplier that delivers strength, durability, and consistent results. With expert technical guidance, reliable quality, and timely delivery across India, we help manufacturers keep production running smoothly and efficiently.
Choose Virat Special Steels—your dependable partner for quality tool steel Supplier and long-term manufacturing success.
Contact Virat Special Steels today for expert guidance and premium tool steel Supplier supply.
Need help choosing between DIN 1.2714 Steel , DB6, and H13 for your next die?
Talk to our technical sales team before you place the order — it’s a five-minute call that can save you a failed die six months from now.
Call us: +91-98140 21775 Email: info@viratsteels.com Visit us: Gurgaon (Haryana) | Ludhiana (Punjab)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What types of tool steel Supplier does Virat Steels supply?
Virat Steels supplies Cold Work Tool Steel, Hot Work Tool Steel Supplier and Plastic Mold Steel. They also provide High-Speed Steel, Alloy Steel, Die Steel and Engineering Steel. Additionally they offer special steel grades.
2. Why should manufacturers choose Virat Steels?
Manufacturers choose Virat Steels because they provide high-quality materials. They have an inventory and offer competitive pricing. Virat Steels also provides expertise and custom cutting services. They ensure delivery across the nation.
3. Does Virat Steels provide sized tool steel Supplier ?
Yes Virat Steels offers custom cutting services. They supply tool steel Supplier in sizes that match customer requirements. This helps reduce machining time and material waste.
4. Which industries use Virat Steels products?
Virat Steels serves industries. These include automotive, aerospace and plastic moulding. They also serve die and mould manufacturing, forging and precision engineering. Machine tools and general engineering are also among their clients.
5. Does Virat Steels maintain stock?
Yes Virat Steels maintains an inventory. They stock used tool steel grades. This ensures dispatch and minimizes production delays.
6. Can Virat Steels help select the tool steel Supplier grade?
Yes Virat Steels has a technical team. They assist customers in choosing the suitable steel grade. The team considers application, hardness wear resistance, toughness and machining requirements.
7. Does Virat Steels deliver across India?
Yes Virat Steels delivers tool steel across India. They have a logistics and distribution network.
8. How does quality tool steel improve manufacturing?
High-quality tool steel offers better wear resistance. It also provides tool life and improved machining performance. Additionally it reduces downtime. Lowers maintenance costs. This leads to productivity and cost savings.
9. Does Virat Steels supply materials for die and mould manufacturing?
Yes Virat Steels offers specialized die steel and mould steel grades. These are suitable, for stamping dies, injection moulds, forging dies and precision tooling applications.
10. How can I contact Virat Steels for a quotation?
You can contact Virat Steels through their website. You can also email them. Reach out to their customer support team. They will discuss your tool steel requirements. Provide a customized quotation.
11. How do I pick the right tool steel for my needs?
The right tool steel depends on what you’re using it for, temperature, wear and tear how hard it needs to be and how easy it is to work with. For example hot work tool steels are good for forging and die-casting while cold work tool steels are often used for cutting tools. If you’re not sure Virat Special Steels technical team can help you choose the tool steel for your project.
12. Why is it important to buy tool steel from a supplier who knows what they’re doing?
A supplier who knows what they’re doing doesn’t just provide tool steel they also help you pick the right one make sure they always have it in stock and deliver it on time. This means you won’t have to delay production your tools will last longer and you’ll spend money making things.
13. What are the benefits of using high-quality tool steel?
High-quality tool steel lasts is stronger keeps its shape and makes your tools last longer. It also means you don’t have to replace tools often you can work without stopping and you get consistent results even when you’re making things in large quantities.
14. What kinds of businesses use tool steel from Virat Special Steels?
Tool steel, from Virat Special Steels is used in industries including making cars, airplanes, molds and dies, forging, making plastic parts, machine tools, precision engineering, and making general equipment.
15. Can Virat Special Steels cut tool steel to the sizes I need?
Yes Virat Special Steels can cut tool steel to the sizes you need. Getting tool steel that’s already the size helps you make things faster use less material and work more efficiently.
Lucchini Italy Tool Steel Supplier in India | DIN 1.2714 & Hot Work Tool Steels
DIN 1.2714, H13, H11 & Hot Work Tool Steels | Pan India Delivery
In precision manufacturing, the right tool steel is not just a material choice — it is a productivity decision. Tool life, dimensional stability, surface finish, and downtime all depend heavily on the steel used in dies, moulds, punches, cutters, and hot-work tooling.
For manufacturers sourcing imported, high-performance tool steel across India — Lucchini Italy Tool Steel is the benchmark for consistent quality and advanced metallurgy. As an authorised Tool Steel Supplier in India, Virat Special Steels stocks and supplies premium Lucchini grades for automotive, aerospace, forging, die casting, plastic moulding, and precision engineering industries.
What Makes Lucchini Italy Tool Steel Special?
Lucchini, headquartered in Italy, has decades of experience manufacturing specialised tool steels to the most demanding international standards. As a trusted Imported Tool Steel supplier in India, Virat Steels sources directly from Lucchini to ensure authenticity and traceability.
- Exceptional hardness and wear resistance
- Superior toughness under impact and shock loading
- Excellent dimensional stability after heat treatment
- Batch-to-batch consistency for repeatable manufacturing results
- Lower inclusion levels through advanced melting and refining
Why Choose Italian Tool Steel?
Italian tool steel from Lucchini consistently outperforms standard grades due to superior steel-making practices. Here is why engineers and toolmakers prefer it:
| Advantage | What It Means for Your Tools |
| Cleaner Metallurgy | Lower sulphur, phosphorus and inclusion content; fewer micro-cracks in service |
| Better Toughness | Tools resist chipping and cracking even under heavy impact loads |
| Lower Rejection Rates | Uniform chemistry and microstructure reduce scrap during heat treatment and machining |
| Longer Tool Life | Customers consistently report 20–35% longer die life compared to standard grades |
| Consistent Heat Treatment | Predictable hardness response reduces rework; saves time and cost in toolrooms |
Lucchini Italy Tool Steel Grades Available in India
Virat Special Steels, a leading Special Steel Supplier and Industrial Tool Steel distributor, stocks the following Lucchini grades for immediate supply across India:
DIN 1.2714 — Hot Work Die Steel (L6 / BH 224 Equivalent)
DIN 1.2714 is the most widely used forging die steel in India. Its combination of high toughness, good wear resistance, and thermal shock resistance makes it the preferred choice for hot forging dies, hammer dies, and press tools.
- Applications: Forging Dies, Hot Stamping Tools, Hammer Dies, Press Tools
- Typical Hardness: 38–42 HRC depending on application
- Keywords: Forging Die Steel, Hot Work Tool Steel, Die Steel Supplier India
Hot Work Tool Steel — Full Range
Complete range of Lucchini hot work grades for forging, extrusion, die casting, and high-temperature tooling applications across Indian industry.
- Applications: Hot Work Dies, Extrusion Containers, Pressure Casting Dies
- Keywords: Hot Work Tool Steel India, Imported Tool Steel Supplier
Technical Data — Key Lucchini Tool Steel Grades
All values are typical and may vary with specific heat treatment parameters. Request mill test certificates for exact batch data.
| Grade | C % | Cr % | Mo % | V % | Hardness (HRC) | Key Property |
| DIN 1.2714 | 0.54–0.60 | 0.90–1.20 | 0.45–0.55 | 0.08–0.15 | 38–52 | Toughness |
| H13 / 1.2344 | 0.37–0.42 | 4.80–5.50 | 1.20–1.50 | 0.90–1.10 | 44–52 | Heat Resistance |
| H11 / 1.2343 | 0.37–0.41 | 4.80–5.50 | 1.10–1.40 | 0.30–0.50 | 44–50 | Impact Toughness |
| Plastic Mould | 0.28–0.40 | 1.60–2.00 | 0.15–0.25 | — | 28–34 (Pre-H) | Polishability |
Lucchini 1.2714 vs Standard 1.2714 — Performance Comparison
This comparison is based on customer feedback and industry data from Indian forging, die casting, and automotive tooling operations.
| Property | Lucchini 1.2714 | Standard 1.2714 | Advantage |
| Toughness | Higher | Medium | ✔ Lucchini — fewer cracks |
| Wear Resistance | High | Moderate | ✔ Lucchini — less edge wear |
| Tool Life | Longer (+20–25%) | Standard | ✔ Lucchini — lower tooling cost |
| Heat Treatment Response | Consistent | Variable | ✔ Lucchini — fewer rejects |
| Inclusion Level | Very Low | Moderate | ✔ Lucchini — cleaner steel |
| Surface Finish | Superior | Standard | ✔ Lucchini — better mould finish |
Customer Success Story — Real Results from Indian Industry
25% Longer Die Life for a Leading Forging Manufacturer
Challenge: A mid-size forging unit in Ludhiana was experiencing frequent die failure and inconsistent heat treatment results using domestically available DIN 1.2714.
Solution: Virat Special Steels recommended switching to Lucchini DIN 1.2714, supported by a full material certificate and application consultation.
Result: The customer achieved 25% longer die life, reduced rejection during heat treatment by over 30%, and lowered overall tooling cost per component — all within 3 production cycles.
Applications Across Indian Industries
| Industry | Common Tooling Application | Recommended Grade |
| Automotive | Stamping dies, forging dies, press tools | DIN 1.2714, H13 / 1.2344 |
| Die Casting | Aluminium, zinc & magnesium casting dies | H13 / 1.2344, H11 / 1.2343 |
| Forging & Extrusion | Hot-work dies, containers, mandrels | DIN 1.2714, H11 / 1.2343 |
| Plastic Processing | Injection moulds, blow moulds, inserts | Plastic Mould Steel |
| General Engineering | Punches, shear blades, wear parts, fixtures | DIN 1.2714, Cold Work Grades |
| Aerospace | Precision tooling, jigs & fixtures | H13 / 1.2344, High-Speed Steel |
Why Choose Virat Special Steels ?
Virat Special Steels is one of India’s most trusted Special Steel Suppliers and Tool Steel Distributors — backed by proven performance and a deep technical knowledge of tool steel applications.
| Credential | What It Means for You |
| Years in Business | Over 3 decades supplying special steels to Indian industry — deep market knowledge and trusted supplier relationships |
| Industries Served | Automotive, aerospace, forging, die casting, defence, railways, oil & gas, plastic processing — 20+ sectors |
| Stock Availability | Ready stock of popular Lucchini grades; no waiting for imports — immediate dispatch possible |
| Custom Cutting Facility | Cut-to-length, rough machined blanks, and custom sizes available — reduce waste and machining time |
| Pan India Supply | Delivering to Ludhiana, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Rajkot, Hyderabad and all major industrial centres |
| Certified Material | Every batch supplied with Lucchini mill test certificates, chemical composition reports and hardness verification |
| Technical Consultation | Application-specific grade selection, heat treatment guidance, and after-sales technical support |
Tool Steel Supplier — Pan India Delivery
Virat Special Steels supplies Lucchini tool steel across India. Whether you need material in Punjab, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Gujarat, or anywhere else in India — we deliver fast with full traceability.
- Tool Steel Supplier in Ludhiana — Same-day dispatch from our warehouse
- Tool Steel Supplier in Delhi NCR — Serving Faridabad, Gurgaon, Manesar, Noida, Ghaziabad
- Tool Steel Distributor India — Mumbai, Chennai, Pune, bangalore, Karnataka
- Pan India Delivery — Special packaging for long-distance shipments, tracking on request
Explore Our Product Range
Browse our full range of Lucchini tool steel and special steel products:
DIN 1.2714 Tool Steel — Product Page
H13 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2344) — Product Page
H11 Tool Steel (DIN 1.2343) — Product Page
Hot Work Tool Steel — Full Range
Plastic Mould Steel — Product Page
Why Manufacturers Choose Lucchini Tool Steel
Greater Resistance to Wear
Designed for hard working conditions and repeated production cycles, Lucchini grades minimise edge wear and reduce the frequency of maintenance shutdowns — keeping production lines running longer.
High Toughness
Good for tooling subjected to shock, impact and heavy mechanical loads where brittle fracture is costly. Lucchini’s controlled microstructure delivers consistent toughness that standard grades cannot match.
Thermal Fatigue Strength
Critical for die casting, forging, and extrusion where tools are repeatedly heated and cooled. Lucchini hot work grades resist thermal cracking even in high-cycle aluminium die casting operations.
Dimensional Stability
Maintains tolerances after heat treatment and in production — essential for precision tooling where dimensional drift causes part rejection.
Steady Production Performance
Cleaner steel and uniform properties allow for repeatable machining, heat treatment, and shop floor results batch to batch — reducing uncertainty in your toolroom.
Frequently Asked Questions — Lucchini Tool Steel in India
1. What is DIN 1.2714 used for?
DIN 1.2714 is primarily used for hot forging dies, hammer dies, press tools, and hot stamping applications. Its combination of toughness and wear resistance at elevated temperatures makes it the most widely used forging die steel in India.
2. Is Lucchini better than Chinese tool steel?
Yes, for most demanding industrial applications. Lucchini steel offers cleaner metallurgy, lower inclusion levels, consistent chemical composition, and reliable batch-to-batch quality. While Chinese tool steel may have a lower initial cost, Lucchini grades often provide longer tool life, improved heat treatment results, reduced rejection rates, and more predictable performance, resulting in better long-term value.
3. What is the hardness of DIN 1.2714 steel?
Typical hardness for DIN 1.2714 in service is 38–52 HRC depending on the application. Forging dies for heavy hammers are typically hardened to 38–44 HRC for maximum toughness, while press tools and inserts may be taken to 48–52 HRC for better wear resistance.
4. What is the equivalent grade of DIN 1.2714?
DIN 1.2714 is equivalent to AISI L6 (USA), BH 224 (UK), 55NiCrMoV7 (EN), and is comparable to several Indian standard grades. Always verify exact chemistry before substituting, as minor differences in nickel or vanadium content can affect toughness and heat treatment response.
5. What is H13 tool steel used for?
H13 (DIN 1.2344) is the global standard for aluminium die casting dies, hot extrusion tooling, hot forging dies, and high-polish plastic injection moulds. Its high chromium and vanadium content provides excellent thermal fatigue resistance and hot hardness.
6. What is the difference between H13 and H11 tool steel?
H13 (1.2344) contains more vanadium (0.90–1.10%) than H11 (1.2343, 0.30–0.50%), giving it higher wear resistance and hot hardness. H11 has slightly better toughness due to lower carbon and vanadium. H13 is preferred for die casting; H11 for extrusion liners and applications requiring maximum impact resistance.
7. Where can I buy Lucchini tool steel in India?
Virat Special Steels stocks popular Lucchini Italy grades, including DIN 1.2714, H13, H11, and plastic mould steels, with supply across major industrial hubs in India.
8. Is Lucchini tool steel available with mill test certificates?
Yes. Lucchini tool steel is supplied with original mill test certificates, providing details of chemical composition, mechanical properties, and full traceability for quality assurance..
9. Can you supply custom sizes and cut-to-length pieces?
Yes. Virat Special Steels offers custom cutting and rough machining services. We can supply tool steel in cut-to-length bars, rough turned rounds, and custom blanks to reduce material waste and machining time in your toolroom.
10. What industries benefit most from Lucchini Tool Steel?
Premium Italian tool steel is trusted across automotive, forging, die casting, extrusion, plastic moulding, aerospace, railways, defence, and precision engineering industries for reliable performance and longer tool life.
11. What is the minimum order quantity for Lucchini tool steel?
Virat Special Steels can supply from small quantities (single piece) for toolroom requirements up to bulk tonnage for production facilities. There is no minimum order restriction on stocked grades.
12. Do you supply Lucchini steel outside Ludhiana?
Yes. We supply Lucchini tool steel Pan India — including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and all major industrial regions. Courier, truck, and train transport options available.
Get in Touch — Request a Quote Today
For grade selection, pricing, stock availability, and technical support for Lucchini Italy Tool Steel — contact Virat Special Steels today.
📞 +91 98140-21775 ✉ info@viratsteels.com
Best Cold Work Tool Steel Supplier in India- D2, D3, DIN 1.2379, DIN 2080 Steel | Virat Steels
Premium Cold Work Tool Steel Supplier in India
India’s manufacturing sector is on the rise and the quality of tool steel has a direct impact on productivity, precision and tool life. Premium cold work tool steels are used extensively in automotive, forging, sheet metal and heavy engineering industries, and offer consistent performance and reduced downtime.
With increasing demand for premium grade tool steels across India, Virat Special Steels continues to be a preferred choice for industries looking for reliable quality, imported steel grades, extensive inventory and fast nationwide delivery support.
What is Cold Work Tool Steel?
Cold work tool steel is a group of tool steel that is designed specifically for uses carried out at room temperature. These steels provide a great combination of hardness, wear resistance, toughness and dimensional stability, which makes them suitable for high precision tooling applications.
Key Properties of Cold Work Tool Steel
- High hardness
- Excellent wear resistance
- Superior edge retention
- High compressive strength
- Good dimensional stability
- Enhanced toughness
Applications of Cold Work Tool Steel
Cold work tool steels are extensively used in:
- Punches and dies
- Blanking dies
- Forming tools
- Shearing blades
- Precision cutting tools
- Industrial knives
- Stamping tools
- Thread rolling dies
- Extrusion Dies
- Burnishing Tools
- Heading Tools
- Coining Dies
Why Cold Work Tool Steel is Important in Manufacturing
Modern manufacturing industries require tooling materials that provide precision, durability and reliable performance. These are the benefits of cold work tool steels, which also bring lower maintenance costs and less production downtime.
| Benefit | Industrial Advantage |
| High Wear Resistance | Longer tool life |
| High Hardness | Better cutting and forming performance |
| Dimensional Stability | Improved manufacturing accuracy |
| Superior Toughness | Reduced cracking and chipping |
| Good Machinability | Easier processing and fabrication |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower maintenance and replacement costs |
Why Choosing the Right Tool Steel Supplier Matters
Choosing the right tool steel supplier is as important as choosing the right steel grades. A dependable supplier provides material consistency, quality assurance and technical support that directly impact tooling performance.
Key Factors to Consider
| Factor | Importance |
| Genuine Steel Grades | Prevents premature tool failure |
| Ready Stock Availability | Ensures uninterrupted production |
| Technical Expertise | Helps select the correct steel grade |
| Fast Delivery Support | Minimizes downtime |
| Quality Assurance | Guarantees certified material quality |
| Competitive Pricing | Improves overall project economics |
Popular Cold Work Tool Steel Grades Available at Virat Special Steels
Virat Special Steels supplies a wide range of imported and premium cold work tool steels, including:
D2 Tool Steel
One of the most widely used cold work tool steels known for excellent wear resistance, hardness, and dimensional stability.
D3 Tool Steel
Suitable for applications requiring maximum wear resistance and excellent edge retention.
DIN 1.2379 Steel
A premium chromium-rich cold work tool steel widely used for precision dies, blanking tools, and cutting applications.
Heat Treatment
The heat treatment process involves carefully controlled parameters such as heating temperature, heating and cooling rates, soaking time, furnace type, quenching medium, and workpiece transfer facilities. These factors are critical for achieving the desired metallurgical properties, including high hardness, excellent wear resistance, and dimensional stability, making the material suitable for demanding tooling applications such as dies, punches, shear blades, and molds.
- Preheating – Heat gradually to about 650–850°C temperature to reduce thermal shock.
- Austenitizing (Hardening) – Heat to the recommended hardening temperature typically 950–1050°C, depending on the grade and hold until the structure becomes austenitic.
- Quenching – Cool rapidly in air, oil, or salt bath (depending on the steel grade) to obtain high hardness.
- Tempering – Reheat to 150–550°C temperature and hold for a specified time, then cool which reduces brittleness and improves toughness while maintaining hardness.
- Stress Relieving – For machined parts, stress relief may be performed before hardening to minimize distortion.
How to Select the Right Cold Work Tool Steel
Choosing the correct cold work tool steel depends on multiple factors:
Consider the Application
Different applications require different combinations of hardness, toughness, and wear resistance.
Evaluate Wear Resistance Requirements
High-production environments often require steel such as D2 or DIN 1.2379 for longer tool life.
Assess Toughness Requirements
Applications prone to impact loading may require tougher grades such as DC53.
Review Machinability
The selected steel should support efficient machining and heat treatment processes.
Seek Expert Technical Guidance
Working with experienced suppliers such as Virat Special Steels ensures optimal material selection based on specific manufacturing requirements.
Conclusion
Cold work tool steels are the backbone of precision, durability and efficiency in modern manufacturing operations. The selection of steel grade and supplier directly impacts tool life, productivity and operational cost savings.
Virat Special Steels is one of the trusted suppliers of tool steels in India offering premium quality high-performance cold work tool steels like D2, D3, DIN 1.2379, DIN 2080, DC53 and other grades. With wide range of inventory, technical expertise, quality assurance and Pan India delivery support, Virat Special Steels continues to be the choice of manufacturers across different industries.
Looking for reliable cold work steel solutions?
Contact Virat Special Steels today for expert guidance and premium tool steel supply.
+91 98140-21775 info@viratsteels.com
For more details about our cold work tool steel grades and applications, please click on the link below to explore our product range and technical specifications.
https://www.viratsteels.com/cold-work-steel.html
https://www.viratsteels.com/hchcr-d2.html
https://www.viratsteels.com/hchcr-d3.html
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1-What is cold work tool steel?
Cold work tool steel is a type of tool steel used for applications performed at room temperature. It offers excellent hardness, wear resistance, and durability.
2-Which industries use cold work tool steel?
Automotive, forging, sheet metal, aerospace, railway, defence, hand tools, and precision engineering industries commonly use cold work tool steels.
3-Which is the most popular cold work tool steel grade?
D2 tool steel is one of the most widely used grades because of its excellent wear resistance and long service life.
4-What is DIN 1.2379 steel used for?
DIN 1.2379 steel is commonly used for blanking dies, punches, industrial knives, cutting tools, and precision tooling applications.
5-Why are imported tool steels preferred?
Imported tool steels often provide superior quality consistency, improved toughness, better wear resistance, and extended tool life.
6-Which supplier in India is best for cold work steels?
Virat Special Steels offers genuine imported steel grades, ready stock availability, technical support, quality assurance, and fast delivery across India.
7-Why choose Virat Special Steels for cold work tool steel?
Virat Special Steels offers genuine imported steel grades, ready stock availability, technical support, quality assurance, and fast delivery across India.
8-How do I select the right cold work tool steel grade?
Selection depends on application requirements, hardness, toughness, wear resistance, production volume, and expected tool life.
Why Hot Work Tool Steel matters in Indian Manufacturing Industries
India’s manufacturing sector is expanding rapidly across industries such as automotive, die casting, forging, aluminium extrusion, plastic moulding, and heavy engineering demanding higher productivity, better precision, and longer tool life than ever before. Hence In such high-temperature and high-pressure applications, the quality of tool steel directly impacts production performance, die life, and operational efficiency.
So, industries increasingly rely on premium hot work tool steels such as H13 tool steel, H11, and DB6 grades known for their excellent heat resistance, toughness, wear resistance, and durability under demanding working conditions.
To support these growing industrial requirements, Virat Special Steels Pvt. Limited with ready stock, precision cutting, UT tested material, and technical support supplies high-quality hot work tool steels engineered for reliable performance across modern manufacturing applications.
Hot Work Tool Steel
Hot work tool steel is a category of alloy steel specifically designed for applications involving elevated temperatures. These steels are used to manufacture tools, dies, and molds that shape.
Hot work tool steels can withstand:
- High thermal stress
- Repeated heating and cooling cycles
- Mechanical shock
- Abrasion and wear
- Surface cracking
This makes them ideal for industrial applications where reliability and long tool life are essential.
Common Types of Hot Work Tool Steel
H13 is one of the most widely used hot work tool steels because of its excellent heat resistance, toughness, and wear resistance. It is commonly used in aluminum extrusion, die casting, and forging applications.
H11 tool steel offers high toughness and strong thermal fatigue resistance, making it suitable for applications involving heavy impact and thermal cycling.
DB6 hot work tool steel is known for its superior hot strength and durability in demanding industrial applications such as heavy-duty tooling and forging dies.
Importance of Hot Work Tool Steel in Indian Manufacturing
India’s industrial growth has significantly increased the demand for durable and high-performance tooling materials. Hot work tool steels help industries achieve:
1. Higher Production Efficiency
Premium hot work steels reduce downtime and improve continuous production performance.
2. Longer Tool and Die Life
These steels provide excellent resistance to thermal fatigue and wear, resulting in extended die life and lower replacement costs.
3. Improved Product Quality
Dimensional stability and resistance to deformation ensure consistent product quality in extrusion, forging, and die casting operations.
Applications of H13, H11 & DB6 Hot Work Tool Steel
| Grade | Industry Use | Main Applications | Key Benefit |
| H13 | Aluminum Extrusion | Extrusion Dies | High heat resistance |
| H13 | Plastic Molding | Injection Molds | Excellent wear resistance |
| H11 | Forging Industry | Forging Dies & Punches | High toughness |
| H11 | Heavy Engineering | Hot Work Tooling | Better shock resistance |
| DB6 | Die Casting | Die Casting Tools | Superior hot strength |
| DB6 | Heavy Forging | Heavy-Duty Dies | Long tool life |
Why are H13, H11 & DB6 Tool Steels Popular in Indian Industries?
H13, H11, and DB6 tool steels are widely used in Indian industries because of their excellent heat resistance, toughness, durability, and long tool life in demanding hot work applications.
Key Advantages of H13, H11 & DB6 Tool Steel
| Grade | Key Property | Industrial Advantage |
| H13 | High Heat Resistance | Performs reliably at elevated temperatures |
| H13 | Excellent Wear Resistance | Reduces tooling wear and maintenance |
| H11 | High Toughness | Prevents cracking and premature tool failure |
| H11 | Thermal Fatigue Resistance | Handles repeated heating and cooling cycles |
| DB6 | Superior Hot Strength | Performs well in heavy-duty hot work applications |
| DB6 | Long Tool Life | Improves productivity and reduces operating costs |
Choosing the Right Hot Work Tool Steel Supplier
The quality of hot work tool steel directly affects tool life, productivity, and manufacturing performance. When selecting suppliers for tool steels like H13, H11, and DB6 tool steel and many more, manufacturers should look for:
- Consistent material quality
- Proper testing and certification
- Technical support and application guidance
- Reliable stock availability and timely delivery
Conclusion
High-performance hot work tool steels are very essential in improving die life, production efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance. Hence choosing the right grade and the right supplier can enhance tooling reliability in demanding industrial applications.
Virat Special Steels Pvt. Limited is committed to supplying premium-quality hot work tool steels like DB6, H13, H11 etc backed by ready stock availability, UT tested material, precision cutting, and technical support to your industry requirements.
Whether for die casting, forging, extrusion, or heavy engineering applications, Virat Steels helps manufacturers achieve better productivity, durability, and long-term performance.
Looking for reliable hot work tool steel solutions?
Contact Virat Special Steels Pvt. Limited today for expert guidance and premium tool steel supply.
📞 +91 98140-21775 ✉ info@viratsteels.com
For more details about our hot work tool steel grades and applications, please click on the link below to explore our product range and technical specifications.
https://www.viratsteels.com/h13.html
https://www.viratsteels.com/h11.html
https://www.viratsteels.com/db6.html
FAQs – Hot Work Tool Steel
1. What is Hot Work Tool Steel?
Hot work tool steel is specially designed for applications involving high temperatures, pressure, and wear.
2. Which are the common hot work tool steel grades?
H13, H11, and DB6 are among the most widely used hot work tool steel grades in industries.
3. Why is H13 tool steel popular?
H13 offers excellent heat resistance, wear resistance, and long tool life.
4. What is H11 tool steel used for?
H11 is mainly used in forging and heavy-duty applications requiring high toughness and crack resistance.
5. What are the advantages of DB6 tool steel?
DB6 provides superior hot strength, durability, and reliable performance in extreme working conditions.
6. Which industries use H13, H11, and DB6 steel?
These grades are widely used in aluminum extrusion, die casting, forging, plastic molding, and heavy engineering industries.
7. What is the hardness range of H13 steel?
H13 tool steel generally ranges between 44–52 HRC depending on heat treatment and application.
8. Where can I buy quality H13, H11, and DB6 tool steel in India?
Premium-quality H13, H11, and DB6 hot work tool steels are available from Virat Special Steels for industrial applications.
Why Manufacturers Are Choosing DB6 / DIN2714 Steel for Industrial Tooling Applications
DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel is a preferred choice for heavy-duty industrial applications because of its toughness, strength, wear resistance, and heat resistance. It is widely used in tooling, forging, die manufacturing, and engineering, delivering reliable performance under demanding conditions.
VIRAT Special Steels supplies high-quality DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel that meets strict industrial standards and delivers consistent performance across various applications.
Industries today require materials that can withstand high pressure, repeated impact, elevated temperatures, and continuous wear. DB6 steel fulfills these requirements efficiently, making it a trusted choice for manufacturers looking to improve productivity, reduce downtime, and increase tool life.
1. Exceptional Wear Resistance
One of the biggest advantages of DB6 steel is its excellent wear resistance. In high-friction and heavy-duty industrial operations, components are constantly exposed to abrasion and mechanical stress. DB6 steel maintains its performance and dimensional stability even under continuous use.
Common applications include:
- Forging dies
- Cutting tools
- Punches and molds
- Shear blades
- Heavy-duty machine components
Its superior wear resistance helps reduce frequent replacement of tools and components, resulting in lower maintenance costs and improved operational efficiency.
2. High Toughness and Strength
DIN 1.2714 steel is specially designed to provide high toughness along with excellent mechanical strength. Unlike many conventional tool steels, DB6 steel can withstand repeated impact loading without cracking or deformation.
Key benefits include:
- High impact resistance
- Better load-bearing capacity
- Resistance to deformation
- Improved structural stability
- Reliable performance under heavy stress
These properties make DB6 steel highly suitable for demanding forging and tooling applications.
3. Excellent Heat Resistance
DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel offers excellent resistance to heat and thermal fatigue. It retains its hardness and strength even at elevated operating temperatures, making it ideal for hot work applications.
This property is especially beneficial in:
- Hot forging dies
- Press tools
- High-temperature tooling
- Heavy industrial processing
- Hot working operations
Its ability to perform consistently at high temperatures improves productivity and extends tool life.
4. Longer Tool Life
The balanced combination of toughness, strength, and wear resistance significantly increases the service life of tools manufactured from DB6 steel.
Advantages include:
- Reduced tool failure
- Lower downtime
- Reduced replacement frequency
- Higher production efficiency
- Lower overall production cost
Longer tool life directly contributes to improved manufacturing efficiency and cost savings.
5. Good Machinability
Despite its high strength and hardness, DB6 steel offers good machinability when processed under proper conditions. Manufacturers prefer this grade because it allows accurate machining with excellent surface finish quality.
Benefits include:
- Cleaner machining results
- Better dimensional accuracy
- Improved surface finish
- Reduced machining errors
- Consistent production quality
This makes DB6 steel suitable for precision engineering applications.
6. Reliable Performance in Harsh Industrial Conditions
Modern industries require materials that can consistently perform under extreme operating conditions involving pressure, heat, shock, and continuous usage. DB6 steel is widely appreciated for its reliability and durability.
Industries value DB6 steel for:
- Dimensional stability
- Resistance to cracking
- High toughness
- Thermal stability
- Long-term operational reliability
These characteristics make it one of the most dependable tool steel grades available today.
Industries Using DB6 / DIN 1.2714 Steel
DB6 steel is widely used across multiple industries due to its versatility and superior mechanical properties.
Major industries include:
- Automotive industry
- Forging industry
- Tool and die manufacturing
- Aerospace engineering
- Industrial machinery
- Metal fabrication
- Precision engineering
Common Applications of DB6 Steel
Typical applications of DIN 1.2714 / DB6 steel include:
- Forging dies
- Hammer dies
- Press tools
- Die holders
- Shear blades
- Extrusion tools
- Heavy-duty tooling components
FAQs
Is DB6 steel suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications?
Yes. DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel is highly suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications because of its excellent toughness, strength, wear resistance, and heat resistance.
Can DB6 steel improve production efficiency?
Yes. Its longer tool life and reliable performance help reduce downtime, maintenance, and replacement costs, leading to higher productivity.
Is DB6 steel cost-effective?
Yes. Although it is a premium-grade tool steel, its durability and extended service life make it highly cost-effective over the long term.
Which industries commonly use DB6 steel?
Automotive, forging, tooling, aerospace, metal fabrication, and heavy engineering industries commonly use DB6 steel.
Why choose DB6 steel from VIRAT Special Steels?
VIRAT Special Steels offers premium-quality DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel with reliable quality, accurate sizes, and dependable industrial performance.
Conclusion
DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel is an excellent choice for manufacturers seeking high performance, durability, toughness, and long service life in demanding industrial applications. Its superior mechanical properties make it ideal for forging dies, tooling applications, and heavy engineering industries.
By choosing premium-quality DB6 steel, industries can improve productivity, reduce operational costs, and achieve reliable long-term performance.
For high-quality DB6 / DIN 1.2714 steel solutions, connect with:
Email: info@viratsteels.com
Phone: +91 98140-21775
H13 vs H11 tool steel for Pune manufacturing industries | Virat Steels
Pune is one of India’s most important automotive and engineering centres, often referred to as the “Detroit of India.” The presence of OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, and advanced machining industries creates high demand for tooling materials that deliver strength, heat resistance, and dimensional stability.
Both H13 and H11 tool steel are widely used, but H13 steel has higher demand in Pune industries including die casting and automotive applications due to its excellent heat resistance, wear resistance, and longer tool life.
Meanwhile, H11 steel is mainly used in heavy forging and impact-based applications where higher toughness and crack resistance are required.
What is H13 Tool Steel?
H13 is a premium chromium-based hot work tool steel widely used in industries that require high strength and heat resistance.
Key Properties of H13 Tool Steel
- Excellent heat resistance
- High toughness and strength
- Good wear resistance
- Strong hardness retention at elevated temperatures
- Excellent thermal fatigue and crack resistance
Common Applications of H13 Steel
- Die casting dies
- Extrusion tooling
- Plastic moulds
- Forging dies
- Hot shear blades
- Hot work tooling components
H13 steel is highly preferred in Pune’s automotive engineering, and die casting industries because of its durability, reliability.
What is H11 Tool Steel?
H11 is a chromium-based hot work tool steel known for its excellent toughness and resistance to thermal cracking. Compared to H13, H11 contains slightly lower alloy content.
Key Properties of H11 Tool Steel
- High toughness
- Excellent crack resistance
- Strong impact resistance
- Good machinability
- Reliable performance under thermal stress
Common Applications of H11 Steel
- Forging dies
- Heavy-duty tooling
- Pressure die casting tools
- Hot work punches
- Industrial tooling components
H11 steel is widely preferred in applications where toughness, durability, and resistance to thermal cracking are more important than wear resistance.
H13 vs H11 Tool Steel Comparison
| Property | H13 Steel | H11 Steel |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Wear Resistance | Higher | Moderate |
| Toughness | Good | Higher |
| Crack Resistance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Machinability | Moderate | Better |
| Common Uses | Pressure Die casting, Injection molding, Extrusion, Drop Forging | Forging, heavy tooling |
The right choice between H13 and H11 tool steel depends on the industrial application and working conditions & Both steels are widely used in Pune industries based on specific manufacturing needs.
Industries in Pune Relying on H13 & H11 Tool Steel
- Automotive component manufacturing
- Die casting industries
- Forging industries
- Plastic mould manufacturing
- Heavy engineering industries
- Tool and die manufacturing companies
These industries require materials capable of withstanding high temperatures, extreme pressure, wear resistance, and continuous production cycles.
Conclusion
Both H13 and H11 tool steel are widely used in Pune manufacturing industries. H13 is preferred for high-temperature, die casting, and automotive applications due to its better wear resistance and longer tool life, while H11 is ideal for forging and heavy-impact applications requiring higher toughness and crack resistance.
Virat Special Steels Pvt. Limited supports Pune’s Pressure die casting, forging, extrusion, and tooling industries with:
Application-specific steel grades
Ready stock availability
Precision cutting support
Technical guidance
Fast delivery across Pune and other industrial regions in Maharashtra
Looking for the right tool steel for your application?
Contact Virat Special Steels Pvt. Limited today for expert guidance on H13, H11, D2, P20, and other tool steel grades.
📞 +91 98140-21775 ✉ info@viratsteels.com
https://www.viratsteels.com/h13.html https://www.viratsteels.com/h11.html
FAQs
1. Which tool steel has higher demand in Pune industries?
H13 steel has higher demand due to its excellent heat resistance, wear resistance, and longer tool life.
2. Why is H13 steel widely used in die casting industries?
H13 performs well under high temperatures and continuous production conditions.
3. What are the main advantages of H11 steel?
H11 offers high toughness, better crack resistance, and strong impact resistance.
4. Which steel is better for forging applications?
H11 steel is commonly preferred for heavy forging and impact-based applications.
5. Which steel offers better wear resistance?
H13 steel generally provides better wear resistance than H11 steel.
Virat Steels-Trusted Tool & Die Steel Supplier in India
In the tool and die steel industry, quality material and reliable service are very essential for consistent production performance. Manufacturers today need more than just steel. Hence, they need a trusted supply partner.
That’s why industries across India choose Virat Special Steels for premium tool steel solutions.
With decades of domain expertise, the company serves high-quality tool & die steels industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to defence, tooling, and heavy engineering.
Premium Quality Steel
Virat Steels provide genuine and reliable tool steel with:
- Consistent hardness
- Better machinability
- Improved tool life
- Genuine quality
Available in:
✔ Rounds
✔ Flats
✔ Blocks
Ready Stock Availability
Ready stock available for major grades including:
ensuring quick dispatch and reduced downtime.
Ultrasonic Tested Material
Virat Steels supplies UT Tested Tool Steel
Ultrasonic testing helps detect:
- Internal defects
- Cracks
ensuring better reliability and performance.
Precision Cutting Facility
We offer precision cutting services for:
- Accurate dimensions
- Reduced machining allowance
- Faster processing
Helping customers save time and improve productivity.
Strong Logistics Support
We deliver across India with:
- Fast dispatch
- Safe handling
- Timely delivery
Supplying to major industrial regions across India .
Technical Support
Our team helps customers choose:
- Suitable steel grade
- Recommended Hardness
- ESR vs standard grades
- Application-based solutions
Certified & Test Report
- Material Test Certification (MTC)
Looking for a reliable tool and die steel supplier in India?
Contact Virat Special Steels:
📞 +91 98140-21775
🌐 www.viratsteels.com
✉ info@viratsteels.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What products does Virat Steels supply?
Virat Steels supplies premium tool and die steels including Hot work steels, cold work steels, High Speed steels, Alloy steel grades etc.
2. Which industries use tool and die steel?
Tool and die steels are widely used in Forging, Extrusion, Plastic moulds, Automotive components, Pressure Die casting .
3. Does Virat Steels provide ultrasonic tested material?
Yes, Virat Steels supplies UT tested material to ensure better reliability, reduced internal defects, and improved tooling performance.
4. Does Virat Steels maintain ready stock?
Yes, Virat Steels maintains ready stock of major tool steel grades for quick dispatch and faster delivery across India.
5. Why choose Virat Steels as a tool steel supplier?
Manufacturers choose Virat Steels because of Genuine quality, UT tested steel, Precision cutting facility, ready stock, fast delivery, technical support
6. Does Virat Steels deliver across India?
Yes, Virat Steels supplies tool and die steel across major industrial regions in India with reliable logistics and timely delivery support.
7. How can I contact Virat Steels for tool steel requirements?
You can contact Virat Steels on 📞 +91 98140-21775 for grade recommendations, stock availability, and pricing.