Comparison Between P20 Steel and H13 Steel
Comparison Between P20 Steel and H13 Steel
P20 Steel and H13 steel are two commonly used tool steels, but they serve different purposes in mold-making, die-casting, and tooling applications. Here’s a detailed comparison based on chemical composition, mechanical properties, applications, and advantages.
1. Overview
P20 Steel
- Type: Low-alloy pre-hardened tool steel
- Hardness: 28-34 HRC (pre-hardened)
- Primary Use: Plastic injection molds, die-casting dies, and extrusion tooling
- Key Features: Excellent machinability, good toughness, moderate hardness, and wear resistance
H13 Steel
- Type: Hot-work tool steel
- Hardness: 44-52 HRC (after heat treatment)
- Primary Use: Hot-working applications like die-casting molds, forging dies, and extrusion dies
- Key Features: High heat resistance, excellent toughness, superior wear resistance, and thermal fatigue resistance
2. Chemical Composition of p20 steel and h13 steel
| Element | P20 Steel (%) | H13 Steel (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.28 – 0.40 | 0.32 – 0.45 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.20 – 0.80 | 0.80 – 1.20 |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.60 – 1.00 | 0.20 – 0.50 |
| Chromium (Cr) | 1.40 – 2.00 | 4.75 – 5.50 |
| Molybdenum (Mo) | 0.30 – 0.55 | 1.10 – 1.75 |
| Vanadium (V) | — | 0.80 – 1.20 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.03 | ≤ 0.03 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.03 | ≤ 0.03 |
Key Differences in Composition:
✔ H13 has higher chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium, which improve hardness, wear resistance, and heat resistance.
✔ P20 has lower alloy content, making it more machinable but less heat-resistant than H13.
3. Mechanical Properties of p20 steel and h13 steel
| Property | P20 Steel | H13 Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (HRC) | 28 – 34 (pre-hardened) | 44 – 52 (heat treated) |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 930 – 1,160 | 1,300 – 1,500 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | 800 – 1,000 | 1,200 – 1,400 |
| Elongation (%) | ~20% | ~10-15% |
| Impact Toughness (J/cm²) | High | Very High |
| Wear Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Thermal Conductivity | Higher | Lower |
Key Differences in Mechanical Properties:
✔ P20 is softer and more machinable, making it ideal for plastic molds.
✔ H13 is harder and more wear-resistant, making it better for hot-working applications.
✔ H13 has superior heat resistance, while P20 has better machinability and polishability.
4. Applications of p20 steel and h13 steel
P20 Steel Applications:
✅ Plastic Injection Molds – Used for manufacturing automobile parts, electronics, and household products.
✅ Extrusion Dies – Suitable for plastic and rubber extrusion tooling.
✅ Blow Molds – Ideal for plastic bottle molding.
✅ Die-Casting Molds – For low-temperature alloys like zinc and magnesium.
H13 Steel Applications:
✅ Die-Casting Molds – Suitable for high-temperature alloys like aluminum, copper, and steel.
✅ Forging Dies – Used in hot forging of metal parts.
✅ Hot Shear Blades – Ideal for cutting high-strength materials.
✅ Extrusion Dies – Common in metal extrusion applications.
5. Advantages & Disadvantages
P20 Steel: Pros & Cons
✔ Excellent machinability → Reduces manufacturing time.
✔ Good toughness and polishability → Ideal for high-finish plastic molds.
✔ Pre-hardened (28-34 HRC) → No need for further heat treatment.
❌ Lower wear resistance than H13.
❌ Not suitable for high-temperature applications.
H13 Steel: Pros & Cons
✔ Superior wear resistance and heat resistance → Ideal for hot-working applications.
✔ High toughness and thermal fatigue resistance → Withstands extreme heat cycles.
✔ Longer service life than P20 in high-stress environments.
❌ Harder to machine due to higher hardness.
❌ Requires heat treatment, adding to production time.
6. Which One Should You Choose?
| Factor | Choose P20 Steel If… | Choose H13 Steel If… |
|---|---|---|
| Machinability | You need easy-to-machine steel | You can handle difficult machining |
| Wear Resistance | Moderate wear resistance is acceptable | High wear resistance is required |
| Heat Resistance | Not exposed to high temperatures | Works under extreme heat |
| Surface Finish | High polishability is needed | Surface finish is less critical |
| Application | Plastic molds, low-temperature casting | Die-casting, hot-working, forging |
Conclusion
P20 and H13 are both excellent tool steels, but their selection depends on specific application needs:
🔹 Choose P20 Steel if you need a pre-hardened, easily machinable steel for plastic molds and low-temperature casting applications.
🔹 Choose H13 Steel if you require high hardness, heat resistance, and durability for hot-working processes like die-casting and forging.
Would you like recommendations on suppliers for P20 or H13 steel? 😊
Milanospecialsteel is the largest suppliers of both steel grade.
Also read more HERE