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Comprehensive Guide to DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

When it comes to precision tooling and high-performance manufacturing, the choice of material can make all the difference. DIN EN 1.2379 Steel, also known as X153CrMoV12, stands out as a top contender in the realm of tool steels. But what exactly sets this steel apart from others like AISI D2 or SKD11? Understanding its unique properties, applications, and equivalent grades across various standards is crucial for engineers and materials scientists seeking to optimize their projects. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the detailed technical specifications, compare it with other popular tool steels, and explore best practices for its heat treatment and machining. Ready to discover why DIN EN 1.2379 Steel might be the ideal choice for your next manufacturing challenge?

Material Properties of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

Chemical Composition

DIN EN 1.2379 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel, valued for its precise chemical composition:

  • Carbon (C): 1.50-1.60%
  • Chromium (Cr): 11.0-12.0%
  • Molybdenum (Mo): 0.60-0.80%
  • Vanadium (V): 0.90-1.10%
  • Silicon (Si): 0.10-0.40%
  • Manganese (Mn): 0.15-0.45%
  • Phosphorus (P): ≤0.030%
  • Sulfur (S): ≤0.030%

Its high carbon and chromium levels ensure exceptional wear resistance and a durable cutting edge.

Physical Properties

DIN EN 1.2379 steel exhibits several notable physical properties:

  • Density: 7.7 g/cm³
  • Melting Point: 1421°C (2590°F)
  • Specific Heat Capacity: 460 J/(kg·K) at 20°C
  • Thermal Conductivity: 16.7 W/(m·K) at 20°C, increasing with temperature
  • Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 10.5 x 10⁻⁶/K (20-100°C)

This combination of density, conductivity, and thermal stability makes it ideal for demanding applications.

Mechanical Properties

DIN EN 1.2379’s impressive mechanical properties make it a top choice for tool manufacturing:

  • Tensile Strength: ≥860 MPa
  • Yield Strength: ≥420 MPa
  • Hardness: Minimum 61 HRC after quenching and tempering
  • Elastic Modulus: 210 GPa

These properties ensure that the steel can withstand high stress and retain its hardness even under tough working conditions.

Hardness and Toughness

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is known for its high hardness and toughness. After proper heat treatment, the steel can achieve a hardness of up to 61 HRC, which is essential for tools that require a sharp and durable cutting edge. Its toughness ensures that the steel does not easily chip or crack under stress, making it reliable for heavy-duty applications.

Wear and Corrosion Resistance

The high chromium content ensures excellent wear resistance. This makes it ideal for tools facing repetitive friction and abrasion. Additionally, the steel offers good corrosion resistance, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the tool in various environments.

Thermal Stability

DIN EN 1.2379 steel maintains its mechanical properties at elevated temperatures, ensuring that tools made from this material do not lose their effectiveness during prolonged use. This thermal stability is particularly important in high-speed machining and other high-temperature applications.

Datasheet and Specifications

General Datasheet Overview

DIN EN 1.2379, also known as X153CrMoV12, is a high-performance tool steel renowned for its exceptional wear resistance, hardness, and thermal stability. Below is a detailed datasheet providing technical insights into its composition, properties, and specifications.

Chemical Composition

The precise alloying elements in DIN EN 1.2379 steel play a critical role in its performance characteristics. The standardized chemical composition is as follows:

  • Carbon (C): 1.45-1.60%
  • Chromium (Cr): 11.0-13.0%
  • Molybdenum (Mo): 0.70-1.00%
  • Vanadium (V): 0.70-1.00%
  • Manganese (Mn): 0.20-0.60%
  • Silicon (Si): 0.10-0.40%
  • Phosphorus (P): Max 0.03%
  • Sulfur (S): Max 0.03%
  • Nickel (Ni): Max 1.00%

This combination ensures a balance between hardness, toughness, and wear resistance, making the steel suitable for demanding tool applications.

Physical Properties

The physical characteristics of DIN EN 1.2379 steel contribute to its performance under extreme conditions. Key physical properties include:

  • Density: 7.7 g/cm³
  • Melting Point: Approximately 1421°C (2590°F)
  • Thermal Conductivity:
  • 16.7 W/(m·K) at 20°C
  • 24.2 W/(m·K) at 700°C
  • Specific Heat Capacity: 460 J/(kg·K) at 20°C
  • Coefficient of Thermal Expansion:
  • 10.5 x 10⁻⁶/K (20-100°C)
  • 13.0 x 10⁻⁶/K (20-400°C)
  • Electrical Resistivity: 0.65 μΩ·m at 20°C

These properties make the material thermally stable and suitable for applications requiring high-temperature performance.

Mechanical Properties

The mechanical specifications of DIN EN 1.2379 steel highlight its robustness and suitability for high-stress applications. Key parameters include:

  • Tensile Strength: ≥860 MPa
  • Yield Strength: ≥420 MPa
  • Elastic Modulus: 210 GPa
  • Hardness (Soft Annealed): Max 255 HB
  • Hardness (Hardened): Min 61 HRC

These mechanical properties ensure the material can handle high loads, resist deformation, and maintain a sharp edge in tooling applications.

Heat Treatment Specifications

The performance of DIN EN 1.2379 steel is highly dependent on appropriate heat treatment processes. Key heat treatment details include:

  • Soft Annealing: Heat to 830°C – 850°C, then cool slowly in the oven to improve machinability.
  • Hardening: Austenitize at 1010°C – 1030°C, followed by cooling in oil, warm bath, air, or vacuum, depending on the desired properties.
  • Tempering: Heat to 170°C – 190°C to achieve the desired hardness and stress relief.

Proper heat treatment optimizes the steel’s hardness, toughness, and wear resistance.

Dimensional and Surface Specifications

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is available in various forms and dimensions to suit different applications. Common formats include:

  • Sheets and Plates: Supplied in soft annealed or pre-hardened conditions.
  • Bars and Rods: Round, square, or flat shapes available for machining or tool production.
  • Surface Finish: Delivered as ground, polished, or pre-machined depending on the application.

Dimensional tolerances conform to EN ISO 4957 standards, ensuring precision in industrial applications.

Equivalent Standards and Grades

DIN EN 1.2379 has equivalent grades in other international standards, enabling its widespread use across regions:

  • AISI: D2
  • JIS: SKD11
  • GB: Cr12Mo1V1
  • ISO: X153CrMoV12

These equivalents ensure compatibility with industry norms and facilitate material selection in global manufacturing projects.

Key Performance Ratings

  • Wear Resistance: Excellent, due to the high chromium and vanadium content.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Moderate, with improvements possible through surface treatments.
  • Machinability: Low, but acceptable in the annealed condition.
  • Weldability: Poor, typically not recommended due to high carbon content.

These ratings make DIN EN 1.2379 steel a top choice for wear-intensive and high-precision applications.

Compliance and Certification

DIN EN 1.2379 steel complies with EN ISO 4957 standards for tool steels, ensuring reliable performance and quality. Certification includes:

  • Material test reports (MTR) as per EN 10204 standards.
  • Hardness testing results.
  • Dimensional accuracy verification.

Suppliers typically provide certifications to guarantee compliance with customer specifications.

Equivalent Materials for DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

Introduction to Equivalent Materials

DIN EN 1.2379 steel, also known as X153CrMoV12, is renowned for its exceptional wear resistance, hardness, and thermal stability. To cater to global applications, understanding its equivalents in various international standards is crucial for ensuring compatibility and performance consistency across different regions.

International Equivalents

Several international standards recognize equivalent materials to DIN EN 1.2379 steel, which ensures its broad applicability and ease of substitution in various markets. In the United States, AISI D2 steel is the equivalent. This high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel is known for its excellent wear resistance and hardness, making it ideal for cutting tools, dies, and shear blades.

In Japan, the equivalent grade is JIS SKD11, which is recognized for its high wear resistance and toughness, suitable for cold-work dies, punches, and precision tools. The Chinese equivalent to DIN EN 1.2379 is designated as GB/T 1299 Cr12Mo1V1. This grade matches the chemical composition and mechanical properties closely, ensuring comparable performance. It is utilized extensively in the manufacturing of cold-work dies, cutting tools, and other high-wear applications.

Within Europe, the EN ISO 4957 standard recognizes X153CrMoV12 as the equivalent to DIN EN 1.2379. This standard ensures that the material meets stringent requirements for wear resistance, hardness, and toughness, making it suitable for high-stress tool applications across the continent.

Key Considerations

When selecting an equivalent material, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application, including mechanical properties, wear resistance, and thermal stability. While the equivalents listed above are designed to offer similar performance, slight variations in composition and treatment processes may influence their suitability for specific uses.

Conclusion

Understanding the international equivalents of DIN EN 1.2379 steel allows for consistent application in global manufacturing, ensuring reliable performance across different standards. By selecting the appropriate equivalent, manufacturers can ensure the reliability and efficiency of their tooling and other high-wear components.

Comparison with Other Tool Steels

Key Characteristics of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

DIN EN 1.2379 steel, also known as X153CrMoV12, is a cold-work tool steel with high carbon and chromium content, renowned for its exceptional wear resistance, hardness, and thermal stability. These properties make it a benchmark material in the category of tool steels. However, its performance attributes differ when compared to other commonly used tool steels, each optimized for specific applications.

Comparison with AISI D2 Steel

AISI D2, the American equivalent of DIN EN 1.2379, shares a similar chemical composition and performance profile. Both materials exhibit:

  • High Wear Resistance: Achieved through their high carbon and chromium content.
  • Hardness Levels: Capable of reaching up to 62 HRC after proper heat treatment.
  • Applications: Suitable for cutting tools, dies, and punches.

The main difference comes from regional standards and specific heat treatments, which can cause slight changes in mechanical properties. Manufacturers often use these steels interchangeably for similar applications.

Comparison with JIS SKD11 Steel

JIS SKD11, the Japanese equivalent, is another high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel with a similar composition to DIN EN 1.2379. However, SKD11 stands out for its improved toughness, achieved through specialized Japanese production techniques. It is also noted for:

  • Polishability: Often superior, making it suitable for precision tools requiring fine surface finishes.

This makes SKD11 a preferred choice in industries like electronics and automotive, where surface quality is critical.

Comparison with DIN 1.2358 Steel

DIN 1.2358 (60CrMoV18-5) is another tool steel that offers a distinct balance of properties:

  • Toughness vs. Hardness: It provides better toughness compared to 1.2379 but does not achieve the same level of wear resistance or hardness.
  • Polishability: Superior to 1.2379, making it suitable for tooling that requires a high-quality surface finish.
  • Applications: Ideal for tools subjected to impact or requiring surface hardening.

DIN 1.2358 is often chosen when a compromise between wear resistance and toughness is necessary.

Comparison with DIN 1.2344 Steel

DIN 1.2344, also known as H13, is a hot-work tool steel designed for entirely different applications:

  • Toughness: Offers significantly higher toughness and impact resistance than 1.2379.
  • Thermal Stability: Optimized for high-temperature applications, unlike 1.2379, which is designed for cold-work conditions.
  • Wear Resistance: Lower compared to 1.2379, making it less suitable for abrasive environments.

This makes DIN 1.2344 the material of choice for die-casting molds, extrusion tools, and forging dies.

Comparison with DIN 1.2316 Steel

DIN 1.2316 is a high-chromium tool steel famous for its excellent corrosion resistance, which is much higher than that of 1.2379 due to its increased chromium content. Additional characteristics include:

  • Hardness and Wear Resistance: Lower than 1.2379, limiting its use in high-abrasion applications.
  • Applications: Widely used in plastic molding and food processing tools, where corrosion resistance is a priority.

While DIN 1.2316 excels in environments where exposure to moisture or corrosive agents is common, it is not suitable for high-wear or high-impact applications.

Summary of Key Trade-Offs

When comparing DIN EN 1.2379 steel to other tool steels, the selection depends on balancing wear resistance, toughness, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability. DIN EN 1.2379 stands out for its exceptional wear resistance and hardness but may fall short in areas like toughness and corrosion resistance compared to alternatives like DIN 1.2358 or DIN 1.2316. Each material’s unique properties make it better suited for specific industrial applications, highlighting the importance of aligning material choice with performance requirements.

Applications and Uses in Manufacturing

Mold Manufacturing

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is widely used in mold manufacturing because of its excellent wear resistance and hardness.

Cold Stamping and Heading Molds

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is ideal for cold stamping molds used in precision blanking, punching, and forming of metal sheets, particularly in the automotive and electronics industries. Its high compressive strength also makes it suitable for cold heading molds, which are essential for producing high-strength bolts, nuts, and rivets.

Stretching Molds

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is also used in stretching molds for shaping materials through deep drawing processes. It is effective in shaping materials like stainless steel and aluminum alloy, providing the necessary durability and wear resistance for high-stress applications.

Plastic Injection Molds

In plastic injection molding, DIN EN 1.2379 steel is used for cavity inserts. Its high hardness and wear resistance make it ideal for producing glass fiber reinforced plastics, such as car bumpers and electronic housings, where precision and durability are essential.

Wear-Resistant Parts

Thanks to its exceptional wear resistance, DIN EN 1.2379 steel is perfect for creating durable parts used in heavy industries.

Mining and Cement Equipment

The steel is used in mining and cement equipment for wear-resistant linings and nozzles. Its high durability ensures a longer lifespan compared to traditional materials, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

Special Industry Applications

DIN EN 1.2379 steel finds applications in several specialized industries due to its unique properties.

Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, this steel is used in forming dies and cutting tools for titanium alloys. Its high strength and wear resistance are essential for handling the demanding conditions of aerospace manufacturing.

Medical Devices

DIN EN 1.2379 is employed in precision stamping dies for surgical instruments and orthopedic implants. Its ability to maintain sharp edges and resist wear is critical for the high standards of medical device manufacturing.

Energy Industry

The steel is also used in the energy sector, particularly in nuclear power plant fixtures and wind turbine gear dies. Its dimensional stability and resistance to wear make it suitable for these high-stress, precision applications.

Metalworking and Woodworking Tools

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is a preferred material for various metalworking and woodworking tools due to its excellent edge retention and wear resistance.

Metal Stamping Dies

The steel is commonly used in metal stamping dies, where maintaining sharp edges and withstanding repetitive impacts are crucial for performance and longevity.

Woodworking Tools

In woodworking, DIN EN 1.2379 steel is valued for its ability to retain a sharp edge, making it suitable for tools that require precise cutting and shaping of wood.

Cold Work Tooling

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is highly effective in cold work tooling applications.

Dies, Punches, and Shear Blades

Its high hardness and wear resistance make it ideal for manufacturing dies, punches, and shear blades used in cold work processes. These tools benefit from the steel’s ability to withstand high stress and maintain sharp cutting edges over extended use.

Overall, DIN EN 1.2379 steel’s exceptional properties make it a versatile and reliable material for a wide range of manufacturing applications, ensuring high performance and durability in demanding industrial environments.

Heat Treatment and Machining Guides

Heat Treatment and Machining of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

Soft Annealing

Soft annealing is a crucial step to make DIN EN 1.2379 steel easier to machine. This process involves heating the steel to a temperature range of 800°C to 850°C (1470°F to 1560°F) and then allowing it to cool slowly in an oven. The objective is to achieve a maximum Brinell hardness of 255 HB, which reduces the steel’s hardness and increases its ductility, thereby improving machinability.

Hardening

The hardening process is vital for enhancing the steel’s hardness and wear resistance, ensuring it performs well in demanding applications. This process involves three key stages:

  1. Austenitizing: Heat the steel to a temperature of 1020°C ± 10°C.
  2. Quenching: Rapidly cool the steel using air as the quenching medium.
  3. Tempering: Reheat the steel to 180°C ± 10°C to relieve stresses caused by quenching and achieve the desired hardness. After tempering, the steel should have a minimum Rockwell hardness of 61 HRC.

Austenitization for Tools

For tools made from DIN EN 1.2379 steel, austenitization is a critical step to ensure uniform hardness and dimensional stability. The process involves the following stages:

  • Heat the steel to 500°C and hold for 2 hours, then homogenize at the same temperature for another 2 hours.
  • Increase the temperature to 850°C, hold for 2 hours, and homogenize for another 2 hours.
  • Austenitize at 1020°C to 1080°C for at least 20 minutes.
  • Cool the steel in oil or a salt bath at 500°C. For larger parts, inert gas or nitrogen cooling may be used to ensure even cooling.

Practical Tips for Machining

Machining DIN EN 1.2379 steel is most effective in its annealed condition, as this reduces tool wear and improves the surface finish. Follow these practical tips for optimal results:

  • Use high-speed steel or carbide cutting tools.
  • Employ coolant to minimize heat generation and prolong tool life.
  • Optimize cutting speeds and feeds based on the annealed hardness of the steel.
  • Ensure proper machine tool rigidity to prevent vibrations that can affect surface quality and dimensional accuracy.

Additional Considerations

Beyond basic heat treatment, there are additional processes that can further enhance the steel’s properties. For instance, nitriding and surface coating can increase wear resistance by forming a hard surface layer, while polishing can improve corrosion resistance, especially when the steel is hardened in air. These enhancements are particularly valuable for applications where the steel is exposed to abrasive or corrosive environments, ensuring durability and long-term performance.

Sustainability and Efficiency in Using DIN EN 1.2379 Steel

Long Tool Life and Waste Reduction

DIN EN 1.2379 steel’s high wear resistance greatly extends the lifespan of tools and components. This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, leading to less material waste and lower manufacturing costs over time. Prolonged tool life is particularly beneficial in industries where tools are subject to high friction and stress, such as automotive manufacturing and metal forming.

Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing

The steel’s stability and hardness during machining enhance energy efficiency in manufacturing. Consistent performance reduces the need for corrective machining and minimizes downtime, leading to smoother production runs and less energy consumption. Efficient machining processes also help reduce the overall carbon footprint of manufacturing operations.

Material Conservation

DIN EN 1.2379 steel’s strength and wear resistance enable the use of thinner, lighter components without losing performance. This material efficiency not only conserves raw materials but also enhances the sustainability of the final products. Using less material without sacrificing durability is key to achieving sustainable manufacturing practices.

Recycling and Reusability

Highly recyclable, DIN EN 1.2379 steel is a sustainable choice for eco-conscious manufacturers. The steel can be recycled multiple times without significant loss of properties, supporting the circular economy and reducing the need for virgin material extraction. This recyclability ensures that end-of-life products made from DIN EN 1.2379 steel can be repurposed, further minimizing environmental impact.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Extending tool life and improving machining efficiency, DIN EN 1.2379 steel reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing. Less frequent tool changes and lower energy consumption translate to fewer emissions and reduced resource usage. Additionally, the steel’s recyclability contributes to lower waste generation and supports sustainable industrial practices.

Optimized Heat Treatment Processes

Proper heat treatment of DIN EN 1.2379 steel enhances its performance characteristics, such as hardness and wear resistance, while also contributing to energy efficiency. Controlled heat treatment processes ensure that the steel achieves optimal properties without unnecessary energy expenditure. This careful optimization aligns with sustainable manufacturing goals by minimizing energy use and maximizing material performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What are the physical and mechanical properties of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel?

DIN EN 1.2379 steel, also known as AISI D2, is a high-carbon, high-chromium cold-work tool steel with excellent wear resistance and hardness. Its physical properties include a density of 7.7 g/cm³, a melting point of approximately 1421°C, and a thermal conductivity of 16.7 W/m·K at 20°C. Mechanically, it offers a tensile strength of ≥860 MPa, yield strength of ≥420 MPa, and hardness of 55-63 HRC after heat treatment. Its chemical composition, featuring 11-12% chromium and 0.90-1.10% vanadium, enhances durability and edge retention, making it ideal for demanding applications like precision dies, cutting tools, and metal stamping.

What are the equivalent materials for DIN EN 1.2379 Steel?

Equivalent materials for DIN EN 1.2379 steel include AISI D2 (UNS T30402) in the USA, GB/T 1299 Cr12MoV1 in China, and JIS G4404 SKD10, SKD11 in Japan. These equivalents share similar chemical compositions and properties such as high wear resistance, toughness, and hardness, making them suitable substitutes in various tooling applications.

What applications are suitable for DIN EN 1.2379 Steel?

DIN EN 1.2379 steel is suitable for a variety of applications due to its high hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of cutting tools, molds, and dies, including blanking dies, forming dies, punches, and shear blades. Additionally, it is ideal for metalworking tools such as deep drawing dies, cupping dies, and sheet metal forming rolls. The steel is also used in wear parts, machine parts, plastic molds, and specialized tools like injection screw components, extrusion dies, and tire shredders, making it a versatile choice in industrial settings.

How does DIN EN 1.2379 Steel compare with other tool steels?

DIN EN 1.2379 steel, also known as D2 steel, stands out for its high hardness, wear resistance, and dimensional stability, making it ideal for cold work tooling and precision dies. Compared to other tool steels like 1.2316, which offers better corrosion resistance but less toughness, and 1.2358, which balances toughness and wear resistance, 1.2379 is superior in wear resistance but may offer slightly lower toughness. This makes it a top choice for applications demanding high durability and precision, although it may not be the best option where higher impact strength and polishability are required.

What are the best practices for heat treatment and machining of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel?

The best practices for heat treatment and machining of DIN EN 1.2379 Steel involve careful preheating to 815°C, followed by hardening at 1000-1040°C in a controlled atmosphere to prevent scaling. Quenching is typically done in still air, and double tempering is recommended to enhance toughness. For machining, the steel should be in its annealed condition to improve machinability, with stress relief conducted after rough machining to minimize internal stresses. Precision grinding is often used for fine finishes. These processes ensure the steel achieves optimal wear resistance, dimensional stability, and ease of machining for demanding applications.

Is DIN EN 1.2379 Steel environmentally sustainable?

DIN EN 1.2379 steel, known for its durability and wear resistance, contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. However, its high energy-intensive production and the necessity for efficient waste management present challenges. Ongoing advancements in sustainable manufacturing practices aim to mitigate these issues, enhancing its overall environmental profile. As discussed earlier, its long lifespan and robust performance in industrial applications further support its sustainability credentials.

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