Nástrojová ocel D2 | 1.2379 | SKD11

AOBO STEEL – Trusted Global Tool Steel Supplier

Nástrojová ocel D2 je nástrojová ocel s vysokým obsahem uhlíku a chromu, která se kali na vzduchu a je určena pro práci za studena. Mezi její vlastnosti patří: vysoká prokalitelnost, vysoká tvrdost a odolnost proti opotřebení, dobrá odolnost proti oxidaci za vysokých teplot, rázová houževnatost po kalení a popouštění a minimální deformace během tepelného zpracování. Tyto vlastnosti se využívají k výrobě nástrojů, měřidel a kalibrů s velkým průřezem a složitými tvary, které vyžadují vysokou přesnost a dlouhou životnost.

Označení v americkém systému ASTM A681 je D2. Třída je také nástrojová ocel AISI D2 v systému AISI. Podobná označení v jiných národních normách zahrnují ISO 160CrMoV12, Japonsko/JIS SKD11, USA/UNS T30402, Německo/DIN X155CrMo12-1, Německo/W-Nr. 1.2379, Czech Republic (CSN) 19221, and China/GB Cr12Mo1V1 nebo Cr12MoV.

1. Aplikace

  • Vyřezávací matrice a razníky
  • Tvářecí matrice a razníky
  • Kreslicí matrice
  • Laminovací matrice
  • Stříhací nože a řezací nože
  • Matrice a razníky pro vytlačování za studena
  • Rohlíky
  • Měřidla a nástroje pro leštění
  • Plastové formy
  • Horké ořezávání výkovků
  • Konstrukční součásti

2. D2 Steel Composition1

CCrMoPROTIMnSiPS
1.40 – 1.60%11.00 – 13.00%0.70 – 1.20%0.50 – 1.10%0.10 – 0.60%0.10 – 0.60%≤ 0,030%≤ 0,030%

The equivalent grades’ composition

 CSiMn CrMo PROTIPS
Germany/W-Nr. 1.23791.45 – 1.60%0.10 – 0.60%0,20 – 0,60%11.00 – 13.00%0.70 – 1.00%0.70 – 1.00%≤0,030%≤0,030%
Japan/JIS SKD111.40 – 1.60%≤0,40%≤0,60%11.00 – 13.00%0.80 – 1.20%0.20 – 0.50%≤0,030%≤0,030%
China/GB Cr12Mo1V11.40 – 1.60%≤0,60%≤0,60%11.00 – 13.00%0.70 – 1.20%0.50 – 1.10%≤0,030%≤0,030%

3. D2 Steel Heat Treatment

Jak popisuje William E. Bryson ve své knize Tepelné zpracování, výběr a použití nástrojových ocelí, ten tepelné zpracování D2 tool steel is often compared to cooking, where precise control of time and temperature is critical to avoid undercooking (leading to a lack of hardness) or overcooking (destroying molecular structure and causing brittleness). The following steps outline the process.

D2 tool steel critical and austenization temperatures

Ac1Ac3Ar1Ar3Austenization Temperature
788℃845℃769℃744℃1010−1024℃

3.1 Material Preparation and Preheating

Před tepelným zpracováním by měl být materiál důkladně odmaštěný a nejlépe zabaleno v nerezové fólii aby se chránil její povrch. Vzhledem k vysokému obsahu chromu a nízké tepelné vodivosti této oceli by měla být pomalu a rovnoměrně předehřívána na cílovou teplotu, aby se minimalizovalo riziko praskání během ohřevu. Cílová teplota je 1200 °F (650 °C)a doba ohřevu je 10 až 15 minut.

Účelem celého procesu předehřívání je zajistit rovnoměrné rozložení tepla v celém materiálu, což umožní uvolnění vnitřního pnutí dříve, než materiál příliš změkne a zvýší se jeho plasticita, a tím zabrání deformaci.

3.2 Austenitizing (Hardening)

This is the second step in heat treatment, during which the material’s structure changes from ferrite-pearlite to austenite, and various complex alloy carbides are dissolved. The heating temperature for this step is 1850 °F (1010 °C)s dobou namáčení 1 hodina na 1 palec (25 mm) průřezuTato doba prohřívání zajišťuje rovnoměrný průběh austenitizace. Je však důležité si uvědomit, že Příliš dlouhá doba namáčení, i jen několik minut, může mít negativní vliv na ocel.

3.3 Quenching

D2 tool steel is an air-hardening steel whose advantage lies in minimizing deformation and dimensional changes during the formation of martensite. The process involves the following steps: Po namáčení, materiál se rychle ochladí na přibližně 65 °C (150 °F)Během tohoto procesu, když teplota dosáhne 565 °C (1050 °F) a než se materiál transformuje do ztvrdlé struktury při 400 °F (205 °C), lze obrobek vyjmout z fóliového obalu a umístit na chladicí rošt. Je třeba dbát opatrnosti, aby se materiál nepokládal přímo na studený povrch stolu., as this can cause localized temperature fluctuations and result in deformation. From a microstructural perspective, this process transforms the steel’s internal structure into finer-grained martensite, imparting excellent wear resistance to D2.

Po řádném kalení materiál stále obsahuje určitý podíl „zbytkového austenitu“, přičemž optimální obsah martenzitu se pohybuje od 95% do 96%.

3.4 Temperování

Tempering improves the toughness of steel, reduces internal stress, and makes D2 tool steel secondary hardening. Tempering must be performed immediately when the material temperature drops to 52 °C až 65 °C (125 °F až 150 °F).

Pokud je D2 pouze jednou temperováno, teplota popouštění je 400 °F (205 °C) k dosažení tvrdosti podle Rockwella 61-62HRC.

Doporučujeme použít proces sekundárního popouštění pro D2, což může zlepšit jeho odolnost proti opotřebení dle 20-30%.

V procesu sekundárního popouštění, První teplota popouštění je 515 °C (960 °F) po dobu 2 hodin na palec (25 mm) průřezuPřed druhým popouštěním, tj. během intervalu mezi prvním a druhým popouštěním, musí být materiál nechat vychladnout na pokojovou teplotu. Toto období může trvat několik hodin. Může také trvat několik dní, ale klíčové je, že druhé popouštění musí NE začínají na 65 °C (150 °F), což je zcela odlišná teplota od dříve zmíněného jednoduchého popouštění. Druhá teplota popouštění je 480 °C (900 °F) po dobu 2 hodin na palec průřezuDruhé popouštění dosahuje tvrdosti podle Rockwella 58 HRC.

Zatímco D2 má slabá sekundární tvrdost, popouštění při vyšších teplotách (např. ~550 °C/1020 °F) lze použít k dosažení tvrdosti 60 HRC, čímž se zlepšuje stabilita během nitridace nebo jiné metody povrchového kalení. To však může vést ke zvýšenému zbytkovému austenitu a růstu zrn, což může snižovat houževnatost a způsobovat mikrostrukturální nestability.

Table of Hardness and Tempering Temperature for D2 Steel

Teplota temperováníRockwell C
As quenched64
300°F/150°C62
400°F/205°C61
500°F/260°C60
600°F/315°C59
700°F/370°C58
800°F/425°C58
900°F/480°C58
1000°F/540°C55
Experimental Conditions: 1. PREHEAT TEMPERATURE: 1200°F/650°C 2. HARDENING TEMPERATURE: 1850°F/1010°C 3. AIR QUENCH 4. CHEMISTRY: Carbon 1.55% Manganese 0.30% Silicon 0.45% Chromium 12.00% Molybdenum 0.80% Vanadium 0.90%
D2 Tempering Size Change Chart
D2 Tempering Size Change Chart D2 Tempering Size Change Chart 0.0006 0.0005 0.0004 0.0003 0.0002 0.0001 0 -0.0001 -0.0002 -0.0003 Size Changes in Inches 0.0152 0.0127 0.0102 0.0076 0.0051 0.0025 0 -0.0025 -0.0051 -0.0076 Size Changes in Millimeters F° 70 C° 20 200 95 300 150 400 205 500 260 600 315 700 370 800 425 900 480 1000 540 1100 595 Teplota temperování These changes are approximate values based on good heat treating practice.

3.5  Cryogenic/Sub-Zero Treatment (Optional)2

Tento proces je navržen tak, aby eliminoval nebo snížil zbytkový austenit a zvýšil rozměrovou stabilitu materiálu. Vzhledem k tomu, že nástrojová ocel D2 si po standardním tepelném zpracování může uchovat značné množství austenitu (až do 20%), může to vést k rozměrové nestabilitě, protože zbytkový austenit se při pokojové teplotě v průběhu času spontánně transformuje na nezpopouštěný martenzit.

Proces zahrnuje následující kroky: Po léčbě zmírnění stresu (přibližně 150 °C), materiál se ochladí na extrémně nízkou teplotu (přibližně -300 °F / -184 °C), blížící se nebo nižší než konečná teplota Mf. Následné popouštění je stále nutné, aby se zabránilo křehkosti způsobené nově vytvořeným čerstvým martenzitem.

Tento proces vytváří kompaktnější molekulární strukturu v materiálu (snižuje tření, teplo a opotřebení), snižuje zbytkové napětí a zvyšuje pevnost v tahu, houževnatost a rozměrovou stabilitu, čímž výrazně zlepšuje výkon materiálu.

3.6 Potenciální problémy

  1. Zbytkový austenit může způsobit rozměrovou nestabilitu materiálů, zejména při vyšších austenitizačních teplotách. K řízení tohoto procesu se používá řízené kalení, přesné doby výdrže a dvojité a trojité popouštění.
  2. Faktory, jako je nerovnoměrný ohřev a chlazení, fázové transformace (zejména tvorba martenzitu) a zbytkové napětí během tepelného zpracování, mohou způsobit deformace a praskání v materiálech. Proto je důležité zajistit pomalý a rovnoměrný ohřev, vhodné kalicí médium a úpravu pro odbourávání napětí.
  3. Ocel D2 je náchylná k oduhličení. Doporučujeme zahřívat materiály D2 v kontrolované neutrální atmosféře, vakuu nebo v prostředí pece s neutrální solí, aby se zabránilo oduhličení.

3.7 Forging

D2 tool steel should be preheated slowly and uniformly to 900 °C (1650 °F) before heating to forging temperatures. D2 has low thermal conductivity, so it must be heated slowly. Heating too quickly can cause the material to crack.

After preheating, the initial forging temperature for D2 steel is 980–1095 °C (1800–2000 °F). For large sections or heavy reductions, the higher end of this range should be used, while for smaller sections or lighter reductions, the lower end is more appropriate.

It is important to note that the temperature during the forging of D2 steel must not fall below 900°C (1650°F). If the temperature drops below this level, the steel must be reheated before forging.

D2 tool steel may partially melt at approximately 1150°C (2100°F), so the forging temperature must be strictly controlled.

ocel D2
Nástrojová ocel D2

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4. Vlastnosti oceli D2

4.1 Basic Mechanical Properties

Modul pružnosti0.2% Offset Yield StrengthMez kluzuUTS
203 GPa411 MPa350 MPa758 MPa

Vykazuje vysokou pevnost v tlaku, zejména při popouštění za nižších teplot. Tato pevnost přímo souvisí s úrovní tvrdosti; s rostoucí teplotou popouštění má tvrdost i pevnost v tlaku tendenci klesat.

4.2 Tensile Test Data3

Modulus of ToughnessFracture StrengthDisplacement at FractureGauge LengthFracture StrainArea Reduction
81 MPa723 MPa0.61 mm30 mm1.97%1.30%

4.3 Tažnost a houževnatost

  • Material D2’s toughness is moderate, which is superior to grades like Nástrojová ocel D3Ve srovnání s jinými ocelemi řady D s vyšším obsahem uhlíku má ocel D2 dobrou rovnováhu mezi odolností proti opotřebení a houževnatostí.
  • Tahové zkoušky často vykazují tvárný lomový režim, charakterizovaný důlkovitými strukturami. Tento materiál však může vykazovat plochý lomový povrch s minimálním zúžením a nízkou plošnou redukcí (např. v některých zkouškách kolem 1,3%).
  • Modul houževnatosti byl naměřen na 81 MPa s lomovým napětím 1,971 TP3T.
  • Ocel D2 vykazuje anizotropní pevnost a tažnost, což se připisuje prodloužení primárních karbidů slitiny během tváření za tepla. Maximální pevnost a tažnost D2 jsou obvykle ve směru válcování.

4.4 Rozměrová stabilita

  • It exhibits minimal distortion compared to many other tool steels. When air quenched from the correct hardening temperature, the expansion or contraction is approximately 0.0005 inches per inch (or mm/mm).
  • Faktory, jako je geometrie součásti a existující deformace, mohou ovlivnit celkový pohyb.
  • Po broušení, svařování, elektroerozivním obrábění a dalších procesech se důrazně doporučuje popouštění pro odlehčení pnutí. Teplota popouštění je obvykle o 14–28 °C (25–50 °F) nižší než konečná teplota popouštění.

4.5 Odolnost proti opotřebení

It has excellent abrasion resistance, often serving as a benchmark for other tool steels. This high wear resistance is directly attributed to the substantial volume of hard, chromium-rich carbides in its microstructure. This makes D2 a preferred material for tooling subjected to abrasive conditions and long production runs. Its wear resistance is noted to be about 30-40% improved over A2 tool steel.

4.6 Zpracovatelské aspekty oceli D2

It has relatively poor machinability. If steel with a carbon content of 1% is rated as 100, then D2 is rated as 45 for machinability in the annealed state. It can be difficult to work and grind, and its weldability using traditional methods is very poor.

5. D2 Steel Advantages and Disadvantages

5.1 Advantages

  • Vysoká odolnost proti opotřebení: The higher carbon and chromium content of D2 steel results in the formation of a large amount of chromium-rich carbides in its microstructure, giving it excellent wear resistance. Its wear resistance is 30% to 40% higher than that of A2 steel.
  • Air-Hardening Characteristics: D2 steel is an air-hardening steel that allows for minimal deformation and displacement during the hardening process, making it suitable for applications with high dimensional tolerance requirements.
  • Rozměrová stabilita: D2 exhibits good dimensional stability in heat treatment, with minimal distortion. When air-quenched from the proper hardening temperature, it can be expected to expand or contract approximately 0.0005 in./in. (0.0005 mm/mm).
  • Good Toughness (Moderate/Fair): While often considered somewhat brittle compared to other steels, D2 possesses moderate or fair toughness for its class. 
  • High Strength and Hardness: D2 is a high-strength and hardness tool steel, with a hardness range of 60-62 HRC. It is resistant to softening.
  • Nákladová efektivita: The molybdenum and vanadium content of D2 steel is not particularly high, so it has cost advantages for users.
  • Corrosion Resistance and Good Staining Resistance: It has good corrosion resistance, and its high chromium content makes D2 steel appreciable resistance to staining after tools are hardened and polished.
  • Deep-Hardening: D2 is a deep-hardening steel. It can be fully hardened throughout a large block (e.g., 75 mm × 150 mm × 250 mm or 3 in. × 6 in. × 10 in.) by air cooling after austenitizing.
  • Sekundární kalení: The molybdenum and vanadium in D2 steel enable secondary hardening after tempering.

5.2 Disadvantages

  • Low Machinability: D2 steel is very hard and difficult to machine.
  • Brittleness: D2 is considered somewhat brittle and has low toughness。
  • Welding Difficulty: D2 tool steel is generally known to be difficult to weld (non-weldable). It is particularly hard to attain a high-quality welded joint by conventional welding methods due to its high carbon content and a significant amount of carbides.
  • Zadržený austenit: After hardening, D2 can retain a significant amount of austenite (up to 20%) that does not transform to martensite. This can lead to dimensional instability over time, as retained austenite can spontaneously transform into untempered martensite at room temperature, causing a change in the physical size of the component. 
  • Limited Toughness Improvement through Hardness Reduction: The toughness of D2 steel can only be improved to a limited extent, and it is difficult to control its hardness at extremely high tempering temperatures.
  • Not Stainless Steel Corrosion Resistance: Its high chromium content is not sufficient to provide the level of corrosion resistance characteristic of stainless steel, as much of the chromium is incorporated into alloy carbides.

6. Welding of D2 steel

D2 steel contains a large amount of carbides, which makes it difficult to weld. If welding D2 is necessary, it is strongly recommended to preheat the D2 steel; otherwise, cracking may occur or the service life of the material may be reduced.

6.1 Preparation and Pre-heating

Before welding, remove all loose chips and grind out any cracks, preferably creating a “U”-shaped channel rather than a “V” shape, as sharp angles can induce cracking.

The preheating temperature can be adjusted between 140°C and 450°C, depending on the specific tool. For severe repairs, a preheating temperature of at least 300°C to 400°C is recommended. The preheating temperature must be reached gradually and uniformly. It is essential to ensure that the temperature during the welding process does not deviate from the preheating temperature by more than 100°C.

6.2 Filler Materials

  • For general joining of broken pieces, or as a buffer layer for large repairs, 312 stainless steel filler wire (0.1% C, 1.6% Mn, 30% Cr, 9% Ni, 26 HRC, 25% elongation) is an excellent choice.
  • When hardness is not the primary concern but chemical composition is, we suggest 410 stainless steel filler wire (0.1% C, 14.5% Cr, 40 HRC).
  • For highly polished or photo-etched D2 tools, a modified 420 stainless steel tool steel filler wire (modified 13% chrome, 52-56 HRC) is recommended. 

6.3 Post-weld Treatment

Once the D2 material is welded, it should be slow-cooled, for example, by burying it in vermiculite or dry sand. For hardened D2 parts that have been welded, stress relief and tempering treatment are required. The stress relief temperature is 400°F (205°C), followed by tempering at a temperature 25°F (14°C) lower than the original tempering temperature.

7. Machinability of D2 steel

As mentioned several times before, D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium steel that is considered difficult to machine and grind. Its machinability is described as “particularly poor” or “low to very low.” When compared to a 1% carbon steel rated at 100, D2 has a machinability rating of 45. For comparison, O1 tool steel has excellent machinability, while D2 has better wear resistance.

Traditional machining methods include milling, drilling, or turning. After machining, the D2 surface may exhibit changes such as roughness (R), plastic deformation (PD), microcracks (MCK), untempered martensite (UTM), and overtempered martensite (OTM).

8. How do we manufacture the D2 tool steel

We primarily supply forged D2 tool steel. We procure D2 steel ingots from an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) foundry, with the option to include Electroslag Remelting(ESR) treatment upon customer request. After verifying the composition and microstructure of the billets and ingots, we proceed with forging. Following forging into round bars or flat bars, the material undergoes heat treatment. Finally, based on customer requirements, surface treatment is performed, including the removal of scale or finishing.

9. D2 comparison with other steels

  • D2 steel Vs. 440C. D2 steel has significantly lower corrosion resistance than 440C steel. In applications where D2 steel is used, corrosion resistance is not the primary consideration; instead, wear resistance and dimensional stability are the primary priorities. 440C steel is ideal when a balance of high hardness, wear resistance, and good corrosion resistance is required, making it suitable for cutting tools, surgical instruments, and bearing applications in corrosive environments.
  • D2 steel Vs. 4140. D2 steel exhibits excellent wear resistance and dimensional stability, making it an ideal choice for cold-worked die steel; however, it has poor toughness and machinability. 4140 steel, on the other hand, is a more versatile engineering steel that offers a robust balance of strength and toughness, suitable for a broader range of machinery components, particularly those requiring good impact resistance and ease of processing. Its properties can be further customized through various heat treatments and surface modifications, such as nitriding.
  • Nástrojová ocel D2 vs D3. Both are important representatives of the D series of steels. In terms of composition, D2 steel contains Mo and V elements, making it more expensive than D3 steel; however, its performance is also more reliable.

10. Supply forms and dimensions

The D2 tool steel we supply is available in various shapes, including round bars, sheet plates, slabs, flat bars, square bars, and blocks. The dimensions of the flat bar range from: width 20–600 mm × thickness 20–400 mm × length 1,000–5,500 mm. The dimensions of the round bar range from a diameter of 20–400 mm × a length of 1,000–5,500 mm. The block dimensions are obtained by cutting the flat bar.

For smaller sizes, such as round bars with a diameter less than 70 mm, we use the hot-rolled process. For sizes greater than 70 mm, we offer forged products.

We also offer the ESR (Electroslag Remelting) process, which is tailored to meet customer requirements. The advantage is better internal microstructure, but it comes at a higher cost. Please contact us for specific requirements.

UT testing: Sep 1921-84 D/d, E/e. 

Surface Treatment: original black, peeled, machined/turned, polished, grounded, or milled surface finishes.

Inventory Status: We do not maintain a stock of D2 steel. We arrange production based on customer orders.

Delivery time: Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) materials are 30-45 days. ESR materials are approximately 60 days.

  1. Roberts, G., Krauss, G., & Kennedy, R. (1998). Nástrojové oceli: 5. vydání (p. 203). ASM International. ↩︎
  2. Reardon, A. C. (Ed.). (2011). Metalurgie pro nemetalurgiky (2nd ed., p. 231). ASM International. ↩︎
  3. Di Schino, A., & Sugimoto, K. (Eds.). (2017). Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Forged Steel (p. 151). MDPI. ↩︎

FAQ

Why do people dislike D2 steel (for knives)?

People sometimes dislike D2 steel for knives because of its lower toughness, which can make it prone to chipping or breaking under hard use. It is also widely considered difficult to sharpen, especially in the field without diamond stones. (Proč se nástrojová ocel D2 tak obtížně brousí?) Another reason for its decreased popularity is a perception problem caused by market oversaturation with cheaper knives that often feature poor or inconsistent heat treatment, leading to a bad reputation for the steel itself. Some also believe it is overpriced when used in premium knives. For more information, please read Is D2 tool steel good for knives?

Is D2 Tool Steel rust-proof?

No, D2 tool steel is not rust-proof, but it is moderately corrosion-resistant. It has a high chromium content, similar to stainless steel, which gives it this moderate resistance, leading it to sometimes be called “semi-stainless” steel. However, it can still rust or develop corrosion spots in wet, moist, or acidic environments if not properly cared for.

Is D2 Tool Steel expensive?

Yes, D2 tool steel is generally expensive. Its higher price is attributed to the high percentage of alloying elements included in its composition.

What is D2 Tool Steel?

D2 tool steel is a type of steel specifically designed for use in tooling. It is highly regarded for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and abrasion resistance. Characterized as a high-carbon, high-chromium, air-hardening tool steel, the “D” in “D2” signifies its belonging to the D-series of cold-work tool steels.

What are the properties of D2 Tool Steel?

High hardness (typically 62 Rockwell C).
Vynikající odolnost proti opotřebení.
High tensile strength.
Moderate corrosion resistance.
Poor machinability.
High density.
Deep hardness. Its microstructure features numerous, large, chromium-rich alloy carbides.

What is the hardness of D2 Tool Steel?

D2 tool steel typically achieves a hardness of 62 Rockwell C (HRC). After proper heat treatment, its hardness can range between 55-62 HRC or 58-62 HRC. For maximum wear resistance, tempering between 149 °C and 177°C (300°F and 350°F) can result in a hardness of 62-64 HRC.

Is D2 Tool Steel good for knives?

Yes, D2 tool steel is generally considered good for knives. Its high hardness and wear resistance allow it to stay sharper for longer, which is particularly beneficial for knives used in demanding tasks, such as bushcraft. It is a favorite for custom blades due to its exceptional edge retention.

Is D2 Tool Steel good for bushcraft/field knives?

While D2 tool steel can be used for bushcrafting, opinions are mixed. Some experts advise caution for field knives because of their lower toughness, which can make them prone to chipping, and their difficulty in field sharpening with limited tools, like a rock. Steels with higher toughness are generally preferred for such applications. However, some users have reported good experiences with D2 in bushcraft, noting its durability and edge retention in various weather conditions. A variant, CPM-D2, is considered better for field knives as it reduces chipping.

Can D2 Tool Steel be used for punching holes?

Yes, D2 tool steel is a suitable material for hole punching applications. It is commonly recommended for punches, along with M2 and A2 tool steels, particularly in production stamping presses. Punches made from D2 steel can achieve hundreds of thousands of hits before requiring regrinding.

How to sharpen D2 Tool Steel (knives)?

D2 steel can be challenging to sharpen, especially with traditional ceramic stones, but diamond stones are highly effective due to D2’s hardness and large carbides. A lower grit edge, such as a 400-grit finish, is often recommended, as D2 typically performs well with a “toothy” edge and does not take a very fine edge as easily as other steels. Regularly honing the edge with ceramic stones or diamond paste can extend the time between full sharpenings.

What are the optimal CNC machining parameters for D2 Tool Steel?

D2 steel is challenging to machine because of its hardness and work hardening.
General recommendations: Machine D2 steel in its annealed state (around 25 HRC) whenever possible. Use carbide tools, especially those with PVD coatings like TiAlN, as high-speed steel (HSS) is not effective.
Turning: Cutting speeds of 100-135 m/min (330-440 SFM) and feed rates of 0.008-0.012 inches per revolution (IPR). Coolant is recommended to control heat.
Milling: Cutting speeds of 60-85 m/min (200-280 SFM) and feed rates of 0.002-0.004 inches per tooth (IPT). Use light depths of cut (0.02-0.05 inches per pass). Climb milling is recommended for cleaner edges.
Drilling: Speeds of 40-55 m/min (130-180 SFM) and feeds of 0.001-0.003 IPR, with peck drilling (0.1-0.2 inches per plunge) to clear chips and prevent bit breakage.

What is the best way to prevent rust on D2 Tool Steel?

To prevent rust on D2 tool steel, which is moderately corrosion-resistant but not rust-proof:
Clean and dry the blade thoroughly after every use.
Apply a light coat of oil (e.g., gun oil or Ballistol) to the blade, especially if it will be exposed to damp or sweaty environments.
Avoid leaving it soaking in water or in other corrosive environments, and do not put it in a dishwasher.
Machining a polished surface finish can also enhance its corrosion resistance.

Can D2 Tool Steel be welded?

Yes, D2 tool steel can be welded, but it is difficult. Its high carbon content makes the welding process risky, as it can lead to cracking and embrittlement in the heat-affected zone (HAZ). To weld D2 steel, it must first be in the annealed condition, and it requires preheating to a temperature between 370 °C and 540 °C during the welding process.

What is CPM-D2? How does it compare to standard D2? 

CPM-D2 is a powder metallurgical (PM) variant of D2 steel. The PM process refines the material by reducing carbide size and creating a more uniform microstructure. This significantly improves its toughness and overall blade characteristics, leading to less chipping compared to standard ingot D2. CPM-D2 is considered to have better edge stability and is regarded by some as remarkably well-balanced, offering edge retention superior to 3V and toughness roughly double that of A2 (though some data places its toughness similar to A2).

How does D2 Tool Steel differ from Stainless Steel?

Both D2 steel and stainless steel are recognized for their corrosion resistance due to their chromium content. However, D2 typically contains around 12% chromium, while stainless steel grades can have between 10% and 20%. This compositional difference means stainless steel generally offers better corrosion resistance, whereas D2 tool steel provides superior wear resistance and hardness properties. D2 is often referred to as “semi-stainless”.

How does D2 Tool Steel compare to A2 Tool Steel?

A2 tool steel contains less chromium (around 5%) than D2 (typically 11-13%). While both steels achieve similar hardness levels (A2 at 57-62 HRC, D2 at 58-62 HRC), A2 is known for its better machinability and is generally “kinder” to tools than D2. D2, however, offers excellent wear resistance, surpassing A2 in this aspect.

What are the equivalents of D2 Tool Steel?

Germany: 1.2379 (DIN 1.2379, EN X153CrMoV12).
Japan: SKD11 (JIS SKD11).
UK: BD2.
France: Z160CDV12.
Russia: Ch12D1.
Spain: F5211.
China: Cr12Mo1V1 or Cr12MoV

Is 8Cr13MoV steel better than D2 steel?

D2 and 8Cr13MoV are different categories of steel. What is 8Cr13MOV steel? 8Cr13MoV is a type of stainless steel that is far better than D2 in terms of rust resistance. However, they are both used in the manufacture of cutting tools. D2 steel has a higher hardness than 8Cr13MoV. 8Cr13MoV steel hardness is 58-60 HRC. D2 steel excels in edge retention, while 8Cr13MoV steel is more balanced across the other features, especially in ease of sharpening and corrosion resistance.

What are the disadvantages of D2 steel?

Insufficient Toughness: D2 steel has relatively low toughness, making it prone to fracturing under impact or high stress, especially in low-temperature environments.
Difficult Machinability: D2 has high hardness. It is difficult to process, requiring specialized equipment and techniques, which increases production costs.
Limited Corrosion Resistance: Although it has a high chromium content, D2 steel’s corrosion resistance is still inferior to that of stainless steel, and it may rust when exposed to humid or corrosive environments for extended periods.
Prone to Chipping: The high hardness of D2 steel makes its blades susceptible to chipping under impact, particularly in thin or fine-edged tools.
High Cost: The production and processing costs of D2 steel are relatively high, making it more expensive compared to other materials.
Complex Heat Treatment: The heat treatment process for D2 steel is intricate, requiring precise control of temperature and time; otherwise, it may lead to cracking or deformation.
Poor Weldability: D2 steel has poor welding performance, as it is prone to cracking during welding, necessitating special precautions.

Can D2 tool steel be machined?

Yes, D2 tool steel can be machined, but it is considered challenging, especially in its hardened state, because of its high hardness and abrasive carbide content. It is easier to machine in its annealed state.

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