Best Mold Steel Alternatives to DIN 12738 for Durability

Beyond design and manufacturing processes, the choice of mold steel plays a pivotal role in determining a mold's longevity and accuracy. Among various mold steels, DIN 1.2738 stands out for its exceptional balanced properties. However, practical applications sometimes require alternatives to 1.2738 steel due to various factors. This article examines the characteristics of 1.2738 steel and analyzes its equivalent grades across different standardization systems, providing professional guidance for mold material selection.

DIN 1.2738 is a pre-hardened plastic mold steel renowned for its excellent hardenability, polishing characteristics, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Its chemical composition primarily includes chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), and nickel (Ni), whose synergistic effects contribute to the steel's superior overall performance.

Typically supplied in pre-hardened condition with hardness ranging between 280-325 HBW, 1.2738 steel can be directly used for mold manufacturing without additional heat treatment. This simplifies processing workflows and reduces production costs.

The steel finds extensive application in manufacturing injection molds, die-casting molds, and extrusion molds, particularly for producing large plastic components, automotive parts, and appliance housings. Its excellent polishing capability ensures smooth mold surfaces, enhancing product quality and appearance. Additionally, 1.2738 steel demonstrates good weldability, facilitating mold repairs and modifications.

Different countries and regions employ varying steel standardization systems. Understanding 1.2738's equivalent grades across these systems is crucial for international material selection. The primary equivalent grades include:

• AISI P20+Ni (American Iron and Steel Institute Standard): Within the AISI system, P20 steel is a commonly used plastic mold steel. The addition of nickel (Ni) enhances P20's hardenability and toughness, making P20+Ni a functional equivalent to DIN 1.2738. P20+Ni exhibits similar hardness ranges and mechanical properties, suitable for various plastic mold applications.
• 718H Steel (Baosteel Standard): Developed by Baosteel, 718H is a plastic mold steel with chemical composition and performance characteristics closely matching DIN 1.2738. It offers comparable hardenability, polishing performance, and wear resistance, serving as an effective alternative for plastic mold manufacturing. Domestically produced, 718H may offer cost advantages in certain markets.

When selecting alternatives to 1.2738 steel, manufacturers should consider:

• Performance Requirements: Clearly define specific mold requirements including hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Subtle differences between equivalent grades may influence suitability for particular applications.
• Cost Considerations: Price variations exist among equivalent grades. When performance requirements are met, prioritizing cost-effective options can reduce manufacturing expenses.
• Supply Chain Factors: Different suppliers vary in inventory availability and service quality. Partnering with reliable suppliers with stable inventory ensures production schedules remain uninterrupted.

Selecting mold steel suppliers with established industry reputations and extensive experience is recommended. Several globally recognized suppliers maintain advanced production technologies and comprehensive quality management systems, capable of providing high-quality mold steels and professional technical support.

The mold manufacturing industry benefits from understanding material properties and standardization differences when selecting appropriate steel grades. Proper material selection, combined with reliable supplier partnerships, contributes significantly to mold performance and production efficiency.