Premium hot work tool steels specialized to die forging application

The forging industry all over the world is subject to constantly increasing cost pressure [1]. In addition, both complexity and tolerances of parts are increased. Consequently, the die faces higher loads which in return causes higher maintenance costs and/ or an early die failure due to wear or cracks. For die forging applications, tool steels like 1.2714 (AISI L6), 1.2343 (AISI H11), 1.2344 (AISI H13) or 1.2367 are used as tool steels for the dies. In this context, the failure modes of forging dies are described, as well as the properties a die steel needs to prevent or delay them. Kind&Co. has developed several premium hot-work tool steels with properties explicitly tailored to these loads and therefore significantly extending die life. These steels are presented, including some case studies that demonstrate their improved performance. Founded in 1888, Kind&Co. has been part of GMH Gruppe since October 2024 with over 15 sister companies. As the only hot-work tool steel specialist worldwide, Kind&Co. supplies both standardized steels and premium steels specially developed for specific applications and can map the entire value chain from melting to final heat treatment in a vacuum. For the die forging industry, prefabricated dies can be supplied into which only the engraving needs to be applied. Kind&Co. application technology is available to discuss specific application issues.