Hot Die Steel H13 is a chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloyed tool steel known for its excellent performance in high-temperature and high-stress environments. Classified as a hot work tool steel, H13 is widely used in industries like die casting, forging, and extrusion, where tools are repeatedly exposed to extreme heat and pressure. H13 steel typically contains approximately 0.40% carbon, 5.00% chromium, 1.30% molybdenum, and 1.00% vanadium. This balanced composition gives H13 an outstanding combination of hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and thermal fatigue strength. It retains hardness up to 52 HRC even at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for prolonged high-temperature applications. One of the key features of H13 is its excellent resistance to thermal shock and heat checking, which is crucial in processes like die casting and hot forging where rapid heating and cooling occur. It also exhibits good machinability and polishability in the annealed state, making it easier to process into precision components. H13 hot die steel is commonly used to manufacture die-casting dies, forging dies, extrusion tools, punches, hot shear blades, plastic molds, and other components that require high thermal resistance and dimensional stability. Its air-hardening capability minimizes distortion and cracking during heat treatment, enhancing the overall service life of the tools. Thanks to its high toughness and fatigue strength, H13 is also suitable for cold work applications, adding to its versatility.