Tool Steel
D2
High-carbon high-chromium cold-work steel: outstanding wear resistance and edge retention for long production runs. Lower toughness — avoid impact loading.
Last verified: 2026-07-10
| AISI classTool-steel group (hardening method / application). | D — high-C high-Cr |
|---|---|
| Carbon(%C)Nominal carbon content. | 1.5 |
| Key alloyingPrincipal alloying elements (nominal). | 12% Cr, Mo, V |
| Working hardness(HRC)Typical hardened + tempered working range. | 58–62 |
| Wear resistance | Excellent |
| Toughness | Low |
| Typical uses | Long-run blanking/forming dies, slitters, thread rolls |
- Typical uses: long-run blanking and forming dies, slitter knives, thread-rolling dies, punches.
- Excellent abrasion resistance and edge holding; semi-stainless from the high chromium.
- Relatively brittle — not for shock or impact; use S7 where toughness matters.
Other tool steels
Sources
- AISI tool-steel classification (type letters and nominal compositions)
- ASM International — Tool Steels / Heat Treater's Guide (typical properties and working hardness)