forging die steel
now browsing by category
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.
Reasons to Choose DIN 1.2714 Steel for Heavy-Duty Projects
When it comes to heavy-duty industrial applications, choosing the right tool steel can significantly impact performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. DIN 1.2714 steel, also known as DB6 tool steel, is one of the most trusted materials for industries requiring high toughness, excellent wear resistance, and superior strength.
From forging dies to plastic molds and heavy engineering tools, DIN 1.2714 has become the preferred choice for manufacturers worldwide.
What is DIN 1.2714 Steel?
DIN 1.2714 is a nickel-chromium-molybdenum hot work tool steel popularly known for its:
- High toughness
- Good wear resistance
- Excellent hardenability
- High impact strength
- Resistance to heat and pressure
It is widely used in industries like:
- Automotive
- Aerospace
- Forging
- Die casting
- Plastic molding
- Heavy machinery manufacturing
Top Reasons to Choose DIN 1.2714 Steel
1. Exceptional Toughness for Heavy Loads
One of the biggest advantages of DIN 1.2714 steel is its excellent toughness, making it ideal for applications involving:
- Repeated impact
- Heavy pressure
- Shock loading
This makes it a perfect material for forging dies, hammer dies, and press tools.
2. Superior Wear Resistance
DIN 1.2714 offers excellent abrasion resistance, which helps tools last longer under harsh working conditions.
This reduces:
- Frequent replacements
- Downtime
- Maintenance costs
3. High Strength at Elevated Temperatures
For industries dealing with hot work applications, DIN 1.2714 performs exceptionally well even at higher temperatures.
It is widely used in:
- Hot forging dies
- Extrusion tools
- Die holders
4. Excellent Hardenability
DIN 1.2714 can achieve a uniform hardness throughout the section, making it suitable for large-size blocks and dies.
Typical hardness range:
360–430 BHN (Pre-Hardened)
This ensures:
- Better machinability
- Reduced heat treatment distortion
- Consistent performance
5. High Impact Strength
This steel grade withstands heavy impact without cracking easily.
That’s why it is preferred for:
- Hammer dies
- Heavy forging tools
- Industrial cutters
6. Longer Tool Life
Because of its balance of strength + toughness + wear resistance, DIN 1.2714 increases tool life significantly.
Benefits include:
- Lower production costs
- Higher productivity
7. Excellent Machinability
Despite being pre-hardened, DIN 1.2714 offers good machinability compared to many other heavy-duty steels.
This makes manufacturing faster and more economical.
8. Suitable for Large Forged Blocks
DIN 1.2714 is commonly available in large, forged rounds, flats, and blocks, making it suitable for:
- Large dies
- Mold bases
- Heavy industrial tools
At Virat Special Steels, we offer extra forging reduction for enhanced grain structure and better performance.
Common Applications of DIN 1.2714 Steel
DIN 1.2714 is widely used in:
- Forging dies
- Die holders
- Hammer dies
- Press tools
- Plastic Molds
- Shear blades
- Heavy-duty machine parts
Why Buy DIN 1.2714 Steel from Virat Special Steels?
At Virat Special Steels, we provide:
- Premium quality DIN 1.2714 / DB6 steel
- Large stock availability
- Ready sizes & custom cutting
- Competitive prices
- Fast delivery across India
- Expert technical support
We are among the leading suppliers of DIN 1.2714 steel in India.
FAQs
Q1. What is DIN 1.2714 steel used for?
DIN 1.2714 is used for forging dies, hammer dies, plastic Molds, and heavy-duty tools.
Q2. Is DIN 1.2714 a hot work tool steel?
Yes, it is widely used in hot work and impact applications.
Q3. What is the hardness of DIN 1.2714 steel?
The standard pre-hardened hardness is around 360–430 BHN.
Q4. Where can I buy DIN 1.2714 steel in India?
You can buy premium quality DIN 1.2714 steel from Virat Special Steels.
Conclusion
If your project requires high toughness, wear resistance, and long-lasting performance, DIN 1.2714 steel is one of the best choices for heavy-duty industrial applications.
Ready to Source DIN 1.2714 / DB6 steel Smarter? Contact Virat Special Steels Today.
📞 Curious about the right size, grades or technical specifications for your application? Our team is ready to guide you.
Explore more: https://www.viratsteels.com/db6.html | 📧info@viratsteels.com | 📱+91 98140-21775