Tool steel is the backbone of countless industries, especially in mold making, die casting, hot forging, and extrusion tooling. Among the many grades available, 1.2343 tool steel is known for its excellent hot strength, toughness, and thermal fatigue resistance. However, in global trade and engineering practices, it’s common to encounter different naming systems across standards like DIN, AISI, JIS, and others. This raises a key question:
What is the equivalent of tool steel 1.2343 in other standards?
This article will explore the international equivalents of 1.2343 tool steel, its material properties, applications, benefits, and how to source it reliably from global suppliers such as sakysteel.
1.2343 is a hot work tool steel according to the DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) German standard. It offers high toughness, heat resistance, and is particularly suitable for thermal cycling operations, such as hot forging and die casting.
DIN: 1.2343
Werkstoff: X37CrMoV5-1
Hot Work Tool Steel
Chromium-Molybdenum-Vanadium alloyed steel
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.36 – 0.42 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 4.80 – 5.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.10 – 1.40 |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.30 – 0.60 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.80 – 1.20 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.20 – 0.50 |
This composition gives 1.2343 excellent hot hardness, thermal stability, and crack resistance under high-temperature operations.
Here are the recognized equivalents of 1.2343 tool steel across various international standards:
| Standard | Equivalent Grade |
|---|---|
| AISI / SAE | H11 |
| ASTM | A681 H11 |
| JIS (Japan) | SKD6 |
| BS (UK) | BH11 |
| ISO | X38CrMoV5-1 |
Among these, AISI H11 is the most direct and widely accepted equivalent. It shares nearly identical composition and mechanical properties with 1.2343 and is commonly used in North American markets.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hardness (annealed) | ≤ 229 HB |
| Hardness (after hardening) | 50 – 56 HRC |
| Tensile Strength | 1300 – 2000 MPa |
| Working Temp. Range | Up to 600°C (in some applications) |
This combination of toughness and red-hardness makes it ideal for hot working conditions.
High Hot Strength
Maintains hardness and compressive strength under elevated temperatures.
Excellent Toughness
Superior resistance to thermal shock, cracking, and fatigue.
Good Machinability
In the annealed condition, it offers good machinability before heat treatment.
Wear and Abrasion Resistance
Its Cr-Mo-V alloying system provides wear resistance under cyclic heating.
Surface Treatment Compatibility
Suitable for nitriding, PVD coatings, and polishing.
Thanks to its high heat resistance and structural integrity under stress, 1.2343 (H11) is commonly used in the following applications:
Hot forging dies
Die casting molds
Extrusion dies for aluminum, copper
Plastic molds (with high-temperature resins)
Aircraft and automotive tool components
Mandrels, punches, and inserts
This steel is particularly valued in operations requiring high cycle strength and thermal wear resistance.
Proper heat treatment is essential for achieving the best performance in service. The typical process includes:
Heat to 800 – 850°C
Hold and cool slowly
Resulting hardness: max 229 HB
Preheat to 600 – 850°C
Austenitize at 1000 – 1050°C
Quench in oil or air
Achieve 50 – 56 HRC
Perform triple tempering
Recommended tempering temperature: 500 – 650°C
Final hardness depends on tempering range
To enhance surface hardness and lifespan in tooling environments, 1.2343 (H11) can be treated with:
Nitriding for improved surface wear resistance
PVD Coatings such as TiN or CrN
Polishing for mirror finish applications in mold tools
| Grade | Cr Content | Max Temp | Toughness | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2343 | ~5% | ~600°C | Higher | AISI H11 |
| 1.2344 | ~5.2% | ~650°C | Slightly Lower | AISI H13 |
While both are hot work steels, 1.2343 is slightly tougher, while 1.2344 (H13) offers higher hot hardness.
When selecting an equivalent of 1.2343 for a project, consider:
Working Temperature: H13 (1.2344) is better for very high temps.
Toughness Needs: 1.2343 offers superior crack resistance.
Regional Availability: AISI H11 is more accessible in North America.
Finish Requirements: For polished molds, ensure high purity versions.
Finding a reliable and experienced supplier is essential. Look for companies that:
Provide full material certification (MTC)
Offer both flat and round stock in multiple sizes
Allow custom cutting or surface treatments
Have international logistics support
sakysteel is a trusted supplier of tool steels including DIN 1.2343, AISI H11, and other hot work grades. With extensive global experience, sakysteel ensures:
Competitive pricing
Consistent quality
Fast delivery
Technical assistance
1.2343 tool steel is a premium-grade hot work tool steel widely used in forging, die casting, and extrusion tooling. Its most common equivalent is AISI H11, which shares similar chemical and mechanical properties. Other equivalents include SKD6 and BH11, depending on the region.
By understanding the equivalents and selecting the right grade for your application, you can ensure optimal tool life and performance. For consistent quality and international delivery, choose a professional supplier like sakysteel who understands the needs of global tool steel users.