Plastic mold steels are commonly used to make plastic molds directly. Since these steels are already tempered to a hardness of 28-36 HRC before being shaped into molds, it helps prevent deformities and cracks that might arise from subsequent heat treatments.
Popular plastic mould steel grades are P20 (1.2311), P20+S (1.2312), P20+Ni (1.2738), 420 (1.2083), 1.2085, NAK80, S136 etc.
P20 (1.2311)
AISI P20 Steel Plate is a flexible, low-alloy tool steel known for its moderate strength and good toughness. This specific mold steel, P20, is popular for making plastic injection mold cavities, tooling, and zinc die casting dies. It’s usually available in a pre-hardened state with a hardness around 300 HBW.
P20+S (1.2312)
P20+S is a robust tensile alloy plastic mold steel grade, provided in a hardened and tempered state. Due to its elevated sulphur content, it affords enhanced machinability over the P20 plastic mould tool steel grade.
P20+Ni (1.2738)
P20+Ni steel belongs to the family of plastic mold steels, similar to DIN 1.2738. The blend of alloying elements like nickel, chromium, and molybdenum impart hardness and resilience. P20+Ni tool steel is crafted expressly for the plastic mold sector, especially suited for sizable steel mold elements.
AISI 420 (1.2083)
AISI 420 steel is a martensitic stainless steel. It offers a high hardenability and strength. It also offers excellent corrosion resistance to acidic and alkaline substances.
1.2085
DIN 1.2085 steel, comparable to AISI 420FM, is a multifaceted tool steel showcasing exceptional corrosion and wear resistance characteristics. This premium steel grade, 1.2085, is widely used in fabricating plastic molds and dies, in addition to making components for both automotive and aerospace sectors.
NAK80
NAK80 steel is an age-hardened or precipitation-hardened mold steel boasting a consistent hardness of around 40 HRC throughout. It’s a super clean, Vacuum-Arc Remelted steel that flaunts a uniform grain structure, steady hardness, and outstanding dimensional stability.
S136
S136 is a popular plastic mold steel, chosen for its strong toughness, resistance to corrosion, top-notch polishability, and its pure, refined steel structure.
