SKD61 Tool Steel

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SKD61 Tool Steel is a hot work die steel, primarily used in the manufacture of molds that withstand high temperatures and cyclic heat loads. Typical applications include key components in die casting molds, hot forging molds, and metal extrusion forming molds.

Clear Strengthening Mechanism

Cr (4.8–5.5%), Mo (1.2–1.5%), and V (0.8–1.2%) in the material form dispersed alloy carbides, which inhibit dislocation movement and delay softening during tempering.

Controllable Hardness Range After Heat Treatment

The hardness after quenching and tempering is controlled within the range of 48–52 HRC, corresponding to a tensile strength ≥1300 MPa. Process adjustments can be made according to the stress conditions of the mold.

Resistant to Thermal Fatigue

The medium carbon content (0.35–0.42%) combined with silicon (0.8–1.2%) improves tempering stability, slowing crack initiation and propagation during repeated heating and cooling.

Wide Range of Section Adaptability

Round bars from 20–500 mm and plates up to 400 mm thick are available. Combined with good hardenability, the difference in hardness distribution between the interior and surface of large-section workpieces can be controlled.

Die Casting Industry: Used in the cavities and cores of die-casting molds for aluminum and zinc alloys, bearing the erosion of molten metal and cyclic thermal loads.

Forging Industry: Used in hot forging dies and pressure-bearing parts, providing necessary strength and resistance to thermal cracking during high-temperature plastic deformation.

Extrusion Industry: Used in metal extrusion dies, maintaining the die geometry under continuous high temperature and high stress conditions.

Mold Manufacturing Industry: Used in plastic molds or structural components requiring heat load resistance, bearing the effects of localized temperature rises during the forming process.

Hot Forging and Extrusion

Automotive Manufacturing

Energy and Industrial Equipment