A2 (1.2363) Cold Work Tool Steel

tool steel A2
A2 (1.2363) Cold Work Tool Steel

A2 (1.2363) is a high-quality, air-hardening, cold-work tool steel known for its combination of good wear resistance, high toughness, and excellent dimensional stability. It is widely used in the production of tools that require a balance between hardness and durability, making it ideal for medium to heavy-duty cold-working applications.

Product Parameter Table

Chemical composition :

C

0.95-1.05

0.95-1.05

Si

0.4-1.0

0.4-0.8

Mn

0.03max

0.03max

S

0.03max

0.03max

P

0.1-0.5

0.1-0.4

Cr

4.75-5.5

4.80-5.5

V

0.15-0.5

0.15-0.35

Mo

0.9-1.4

0.9-1.2

Mechanical properties :

670-710 MPa

345-350 MPa

41%

21%

12 J

Round steel:
Rolling size range: 10-260mm
Forging size range: 70-800mm
Square steel:
Thickness size range: 10-500mm, width size range: 200-810mm
Forged rings:
Outer diameter size can reach up to 1000mm

Application

A2 (also known as 1.2363) is a high-performance cold work tool steel known for its excellent wear resistance, toughness, and stability. It’s widely used in the manufacturing of tools that require both durability and precision. Some key applications include:
 
 
1.Die Casting Tools: A2 steel is commonly used for manufacturing molds and dies in the die-casting industry due to its ability to resist wear and maintain sharpness under high-pressure conditions.
 
2.Stamping Dies: A2 steel is ideal for stamping tools because it offers resistance to cracking and deformation during high-volume production runs.
 
3.Blades and Punches: A2 steel is widely used for producing blades, punches, and other cutting tools, thanks to its excellent hardness and edge retention.
 
4.Cold Forming Tools: A2 steel is used in tools for cold working processes like bending, drawing, and punching metal due to its high strength and ability to resist deformation at lower temperatures.
 
5.Cutting Dies: The steel’s resistance to abrasion makes it a popular choice for cutting dies used in high-stress applications, where wear resistance is critical.
 
6.Tooling for Woodworking: A2 steel is used in tools for woodworking due to its high level of toughness, which helps in maintaining tool integrity and precision.
 
These applications take advantage of A2 steel’s unique balance of hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability, making it an excellent choice for high-performance tooling needs.

Customer Testimonials

Exceptional Toughness

A2/1.2363 steel’s toughness is truly remarkable. We work with heavy machinery components that are subjected to constant impact and stress. This steel has proven to be incredibly durable, withstanding the harshest conditions without any signs of cracking or deformation. It has saved us a significant amount of time and money by reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements. The ability to maintain its structural integrity under such demanding circumstances is a testament to the steel’s superior quality.

High Hardness for Precision Tools

The high hardness of A2/1.2363 steel is a game-changer for our precision tool manufacturing. We produce cutting tools that require a sharp and long-lasting edge, and this steel delivers just that. It allows us to create tools that can cut through tough materials with ease, without the need for frequent sharpening. The edge retention is outstanding, ensuring consistent performance and high-quality results. This has not only improved our production efficiency but also enhanced the reputation of our tools in the market.

Dimensional Stability for Precision Engineering

When it comes to precision engineering, dimensional stability is crucial. A2/1.2363 steel excels in this regard. It maintains its size and shape throughout the manufacturing process, even after heat treatment and under varying operating conditions. This has allowed us to achieve extremely tight tolerances in our components, ensuring a perfect fit and function. The consistency in dimensions has significantly reduced the need for adjustments and rework, saving us time and resources. It’s the ideal choice for applications where precision is non-negotiable.

FAQ

A2 (1.2363) tool steel is primarily used for manufacturing cold work tools such as die casting molds, stamping dies, blades, punches, and cutting tools. It is known for its excellent wear resistance, toughness, and dimensional stability, making it suitable for high-volume production in various industries.

A2 tool steel should be heated to a temperature of approximately 1000-1050°C (1832-1922°F) for austenitizing, followed by air cooling or oil quenching. Tempering is then recommended at 400-500°C (752-932°F) to achieve the desired hardness and toughness. Proper heat treatment ensures optimal performance in tooling applications.

After heat treatment, A2 tool steel can achieve a hardness of around 57-62 HRC, depending on the tempering process. This hardness provides excellent wear resistance and durability in demanding cold work applications.

A2 tool steel has moderate resistance to corrosion but is not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steels. It can withstand moderate exposure to moisture, but in environments with high humidity or corrosive chemicals, additional protective coatings may be recommended to enhance its resistance.

A2 tool steel offers a balanced combination of wear resistance, toughness, and ease of machining, making it a cost-effective choice for tooling applications. Compared to other tool steels, it provides better dimensional stability and a predictable response to heat treatment, making it suitable for high-precision tools and dies.