Meaning
Precision components made from a specific chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy steel known for high toughness and thermal fatigue resistance. Standard h13 inserts are the primary choice for injection moulding tools because they withstand the repetitive thermal shock of molten polymer contact. They maintain their hardness during prolonged exposure to the high temperatures required for engineering plastics but lose their effectiveness if the cooling system fails entirely.
This material is specifically designed for die-casting and plastic injection applications where durability is paramount.
Material Durability
Heat treatment processes define the performance of the cavity surfaces and their resistance to abrasive wear. Correctly hardened h13 inserts provide a stable platform for long-run production without dimensional degradation. This alloy resists the formation of heat checks, which are small cracks that can transfer their texture to the surface of the moulded part.
Maintenance Requirement
Surface finishes on the tool steel must be periodically inspected for signs of erosion or chemical attack from flame-retardant additives. Maintenance of h13 inserts involves polishing out minor scratches and checking for any loss of hardness over time. Because this steel is prone to oxidation at high temperatures, protective coatings are often applied to extend the service life of the insert.
Failure to maintain the surface can lead to increased ejection force and part deformation.
Economic Value
Tooling investment is often weighed against the expected volume of parts and the complexity of the geometry. Utilizing h13 inserts offers a balance between initial cost and the ability to refurbish the tool multiple times. This choice reduces the total cost per part over the lifetime of a high-volume program.
