Meaning
Chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloyed steel provides high toughness and thermal fatigue resistance for injection moulding tools. DIN 1.2343 is known for its through-hardening properties and resistance to heat checking. It maintains its structural integrity when subjected to the repeated thermal cycling of the moulding process.
Material suitability is limited to temperatures below the tempering point where the steel loses its hardness.
Thermal Performance
Heat dissipation through the mould wall affects the cooling time and overall cycle efficiency. DIN 1.2343 allows for uniform cooling across complex geometries, which reduces internal stresses in the plastic part. The high thermal conductivity of this steel helps prevent hot spots that lead to sink marks or warping.
Tool Durability
Surface treatments like nitriding or PVD coating can further enhance the wear resistance of the cavity. DIN 1.2343 responds well to these processes, extending the life of the tool when running abrasive glass-filled resins. A moulder choosing this steel expects several hundred thousand cycles before extensive maintenance is required.
Maintaining surface integrity is essential for high-aesthetic parts.
Machining Requirement
Hardening must be performed carefully to avoid dimensional changes that would ruin the precision of the tool. DIN 1.2343 requires specific annealing steps during the fabrication of the mould.
