H13 Steel Composition

For factories using H13 in demanding hot work applications, understanding its chemical H13 steel composition is key to optimizing processes and tool life. This guide offers direct, practical information on the elements defining H13 tool steel. We Aobo Steel provide a free download of the H13 steel composition PDF file at the bottom of the page.

What Defines H13 Steel?

H13 is a globally recognized 5% Chromium hot-work die steel, prized for its property balance at high temperatures. The specific H13 steel composition dictates its unique characteristics. While minor variations exist, the core chemical profile of H13 is consistent, ensuring reliable performance.

Key Alloying Elements in H13 Steel Composition

The precise control of alloying elements gives H13 steel its sought-after properties. Here’s a breakdown of the typical chemical H13 steel composition:

Element	Typical Range (% by weight)	Key Contributions
Carbon (C)	0.32 – 0.45	Hardness, strength after heat treatment
Silicon (Si)	0.80 – 1.20	Deoxidizer, tempering resistance
Manganese (Mn)	0.20 – 0.60	Hardenability, deoxidizer
Chromium (Cr)	4.75 – 5.50	Hardenability, heat checking resistance, toughness
Molybdenum (Mo)	1.10 – 1.75	Hot strength, secondary hardening, tempering resistance
Vanadium (V)	0.80 – 1.20	Wear resistance, tempering resistance, fine grain size
Phosphorus (P)	Max 0.030	Impurity, kept low for quality
Sulfur (S)	Max 0.030	Impurity, kept low (ESR grades can be <0.005%)

Note: Elements like Nickel (Ni) and Copper (Cu) are kept at low levels (e.g., Ni+Cu combined often ≤0.75%).

The Role of Each Element in H13 Steel

Each element in the H13 steel composition is vital for its overall performance:

H13 Steel Composition and Performance

The interaction of elements in the H13 steel composition (especially C, Cr, Mo, V) creates specific carbides during heat treatment. These carbides are critical for:

• Good Red Hardness: Retaining hardness at high temperatures.
• Excellent Abrasion Resistance: Due to hard vanadium carbides.
• Good Resistance to Heat Checking: For tools with cyclic heating/cooling.
• High Thermal Fatigue Resistance: Withstanding temperature-induced stress.These properties make H13 ideal for die casting molds, hot forging dies, and extrusion tooling.

Enhanced Quality with ESR H13 Steel

For applications needing superior cleanliness and homogeneity, Electro-Slag Remelted (ESR) H13 is often preferred. The ESR process refines the H13 steel composition by reducing impurities, leading to:

• Improved toughness and ductility
• Better fatigue resistance
• Higher polishability
• Potentially longer tool life

Partner with Aobo Steel for Your H13 Needs

Understanding H13 steel composition helps select the best material. At Aobo Steel, our experience ensures high-quality H13 tool steel that meets rigorous standards. For questions or to source H13 steel, contact our expert team.