Analysis and optimization of H-13 forge steel die material for bulk production

The properties of H13 are dependent on the microstructure, the composition, and the heat treatment. The microstructure of H13 steel is composed of a tempered Ti C matrix, with various alloying element carbide precipitates distributed within. These carbides are composed of molybdenum, vanadium, chromium and iron. The size of the carbides varies for each alloying element that composes it. The molybdenum and vanadium carbides tend to be larger in size and clustered together. Carbides, composed of iron and chromium, are distributed evenly and therefore are very fine and do not form clustered colonies. The size of the carbides plays a key role in fracture. The present work discuss the life feasibility of the die by practical way of observing micro structures of bottom die after crack propagation and the hardness levels of heating. The process has been carried out on 1 ton hammer for observation of load impacts on the die.