- Description
Description
H13 Steel vs P20 Steel: Key Differences and Applications
H13 Steel vs P20 Steel
H13 steel and P20 steel are both widely used tool steels, but they have distinct properties and applications. Below is a detailed comparison to help you choose the right steel for your needs.
1. Chemical Composition
| Element | H13 Steel (Hot Work Tool Steel) | P20 Steel (Plastic Mold Steel) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.35–0.45% | 0.28–0.40% |
| Chromium (Cr) | 4.75–5.50% | 1.40–2.00% |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 1.10–1.75% | 0.30–0.55% |
| Vanadium (V) | 0.80–1.20% | 0.03% (Low) |
| Nickel (Ni) | – | 0.90–1.20% |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.80–1.20% | 0.20–0.80% |
2. Properties Comparison
| Property | H13 Steel | P20 Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (HRC) | 38–52 HRC | 28–32 HRC |
| Wear Resistance | High | Moderate |
| Toughness | High | Good |
| Machinability | Moderate | Excellent |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent (Can withstand high temperatures) | Low (Not suitable for high-heat applications) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate | Good |
3. Applications
H13 Steel Uses:
✅ Used in hot work applications due to its high heat resistance and toughness.
✅ Commonly found in die casting dies, forging dies, and extrusion tooling.
✅ Suitable for high-temperature molds in the automotive and aerospace industries.
P20 Steel Uses:
✅ Preferred for plastic injection molds and compression molds due to its machinability.
✅ Used in die sets, jigs, and fixtures for moderate wear resistance needs.
✅ Suitable for low to medium-temperature applications.
4. Which Steel Should You Choose?
- If you need high heat resistance, wear resistance, and toughness, go for H13 steel (best for hot work dies and die-casting applications).
- If you need good machinability and lower hardness for mold-making and plastic injection applications, choose P20 steel.
Conclusion:
H13 steel is best for high-temperature applications, while P20 steel is ideal for mold-making and machining purposes. Your choice depends on the specific mechanical, thermal, and machining requirements of your project.
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