Bohler-Uddeholm,UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod/Bar

Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # **Product Datasheet: Böhler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR Premium Hot Work Tool Steel (Premium AISI H13)** ## **Product Overview** **UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR** represents the pinnacle of **premium H13-type hot work tool steel** technology, manufactured by Böhler-Uddeholm using advanced metallurgical processes. This material is engineered for **exceptional performance in demanding die casting, extrusion, and hot forming applications**, offering superior **thermal fatigue resistance, toughness, and dimensional stability** compared to standard H13 grades. As a "Superior" grade, it undergoes stringent quality control and enhanced manufacturing processes to ensure maximum reliability in critical tooling applications. ## **Key Characteristics & Advantages** - **Superior Thermal Fatigue Resistance:** Exceptional resistance to heat checking and thermal cracking under cyclic conditions - **Excellent Toughness at Elevated Temperatures:** Maintains high impact strength under operating conditions - **Enhanced Dimensional Stability:** Minimal and predictable distortion during heat treatment - **Superior Micro-Cleanliness:** Advanced manufacturing reduces inclusions for better fatigue life - **Excellent Machinability and Polishability:** Easier to process than conventional H13 grades - **Good Thermal Conductivity:** Efficient heat dissipation reduces thermal stress - **Consistent Performance:** Batch-to-batch consistency through strict process control - **Optimized for Aluminum Die Casting:** Specifically engineered for demanding aluminum casting applications ## **Standard Specifications & International Designations** | **Standard** | **Designation** | **Notes** | |--------------|-----------------|-----------| | **Böhler-Uddeholm** | **UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR** | Premium proprietary grade | | **AISI/ASTM** | **H13 (Premium Quality)** | Superior to standard H13 | | **DIN/EN** | **1.2344 (X40CrMoV5-1)** | Premium/ESR quality | | **JIS** | **SKD61 (Premium)** | Enhanced version | | **ISO** | **HTF 4** | Hot work tool steel classification | | **GB** | **4Cr5MoSiV1 (Premium)** | Chinese standard equivalent | | **Manufacturing Quality** | **ESR/VAR Optional** | Electroslag or vacuum arc remelted | | **Material Category** | **Premium Hot Work Tool Steel** | For critical applications | ## **Chemical Composition (Typical, Weight %)** | Element | Content (%) | Primary Function | Metallurgical Benefit | |---------|-------------|------------------|----------------------| | **Carbon (C)** | 0.37-0.42 | Matrix strength & carbide formation | Optimized balance of hardness & toughness | | **Chromium (Cr)** | 5.00-5.50 | Heat resistance & hardenability | Excellent oxidation resistance & through-hardening | | **Molybdenum (Mo)** | 1.25-1.60 | Hot strength & secondary hardening | High temperature strength & temper resistance | | **Vanadium (V)** | 0.90-1.10 | Carbide formation & grain refinement | Enhanced wear resistance & thermal fatigue | | **Silicon (Si)** | 0.90-1.20 | Deoxidizer & temper resistance | Improved high temperature strength | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 0.30-0.50 | Hardenability & strength | Consistent hardening response | | **Sulfur (S)** | **≤0.003** | **Controlled ultra-low level** | **Enhanced toughness & fatigue resistance** | | **Phosphorus (P)** | **≤0.015** | **Controlled ultra-low level** | **Improved ductility & impact strength** | | **Nickel (Ni)** | **≤0.25** | **Toughness enhancement** | **Optional improvement** | | **Iron (Fe)** | **Balance** | Matrix | **Consistent microstructure** | ***Special Note:** ORVAR SUPERIOR maintains the standard H13 chemistry but with **tighter composition control and lower impurity levels** (sulfur, phosphorus), resulting in superior mechanical properties, particularly toughness and fatigue resistance. Optional ESR (Electroslag Remelting) or VAR (Vacuum Arc Remelting) further enhances cleanliness and isotropy.* ## **Microstructural Characteristics** | Feature | Specification | Benefit | |---------|---------------|---------| | **Carbide Types** | Fine, uniformly distributed MC and M₇C₃ carbides | Optimal thermal fatigue resistance | | **Carbide Distribution** | Highly uniform with minimal banding | Consistent properties in all directions | | **Grain Size** | ASTM 8-10 (fine) | Enhanced toughness & fatigue life | | **Microcleanliness** | **ASTM E45 ≤ 0.5** (superior to standard) | **Exceptional fatigue & fracture resistance** | | **Inclusion Morphology** | Small, globular (non-deformed) | Reduced stress concentration | | **Segregation** | Minimal | Uniform thermal & mechanical properties | ## **Manufacturing Process Advantages** 1. **Advanced Melting:** Electric arc furnace with ladle refining 2. **Optional Secondary Refining:** ESR or VAR for critical applications 3. **Controlled Forging:** Optimized deformation for uniform structure 4. **Precise Heat Treatment:** Controlled annealing for optimal machinability 5. **Stringent Testing:** 100% ultrasonic testing available ## **Typical Heat Treatment** ### **1. Annealing** - **Temperature:** **850-880°C (1560-1615°F)** - **Atmosphere:** Protective or vacuum recommended - **Cooling:** Slow furnace cool (≤25°C/hour) to 600°C, then air cool - **Annealed Hardness:** **185-210 HB** - **Purpose:** Optimal condition for machining ### **2. Stress Relieving** - **Temperature:** **600-650°C (1110-1200°F)** - **Duration:** 2 hours per 25 mm thickness minimum - **Application:** After rough machining, before final hardening ### **3. Hardening** 1. **Preheating:** **Two-stage recommended** - Stage 1: **600-650°C (1110-1200°F)** - Stage 2: **850-900°C (1560-1650°F)** 2. **Austenitizing:** **1000-1030°C (1830-1885°F)** - **Standard for die casting:** **1010-1020°C (1850-1870°F)** - **Maximum toughness:** **1000-1010°C (1830-1850°F)** - **Maximum hot strength:** **1020-1030°C (1870-1885°F)** 3. **Soaking Time:** **20-40 minutes** (depending on section size) 4. **Quenching:** **Air cooling** (forced air recommended) or **high-pressure gas quenching** ### **4. Tempering** - **Critical Requirement:** **Immediate tempering** after reaching 50-70°C (120-160°F) - **Minimum Cycles:** **Double tempering** (triple recommended for critical applications) - **Temperature Range:** **540-650°C (1005-1200°F)** - **Recommended for Die Casting:** **580-620°C (1075-1150°F)** - **Hardness Profile:** - 540°C (1005°F): 50-52 HRC - 560°C (1040°F): 48-50 HRC - 580°C (1075°F): 46-48 HRC - 600°C (1110°F): 44-46 HRC - 620°C (1150°F): 40-42 HRC - 650°C (1200°F): 36-38 HRC ### **5. Nitriding (Recommended for Die Casting)** - **Process:** **Gas, plasma, or salt bath nitriding** - **Temperature:** 480-530°C (895-985°F) - **Case Depth:** 0.10-0.25 mm optimal - **Surface Hardness:** 1000-1200 HV - **Benefits:** Reduced soldering, improved erosion resistance, extended die life ## **Physical Properties** | Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | |----------|-------|------|------------| | **Density** | 7.80 | g/cm³ | At 20°C | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | 210 | GPa | At 20°C | | **Thermal Expansion Coefficient** | 11.5 | ×10⁻⁶/K | 20-100°C | | **Thermal Conductivity** | 25.0 | W/(m·K) | At 20°C | | **Specific Heat Capacity** | 460 | J/(kg·K) | At 20°C | ## **Mechanical Properties** ### **Standard Condition (1020°C Austenitize / 600°C×2 Temper)** | Property | Value Range | Unit | Test Conditions | |----------|-------------|------|-----------------| | **Hardness** | **44-46** | HRC | Room temperature | | **Tensile Strength** | 1450-1550 | MPa | Room temperature | | **Yield Strength (0.2%)** | 1300-1400 | MPa | Room temperature | | **Elongation** | **12-15** | % | Room temperature | | **Reduction of Area** | **45-55** | % | Room temperature | | **Impact Toughness (Charpy V)** | **50-65** | J | Room temperature | | **Fracture Toughness (K_IC)** | **80-100** | MPa√m | Room temperature | ### **High Temperature Properties** | Temperature | Hardness | Tensile Strength | Impact Toughness | |-------------|----------|-----------------|------------------| | **200°C (390°F)** | 42-44 HRC | 1250-1350 MPa | 40-55 J | | **400°C (750°F)** | 38-40 HRC | 950-1050 MPa | 35-50 J | | **600°C (1110°F)** | 30-32 HRC | 550-650 MPa | 25-40 J | ### **Thermal Fatigue Performance** | Test Method | ORVAR SUPERIOR | Standard H13 | Improvement | |-------------|----------------|--------------|-------------| | **Thermal Cycling to Cracking** | **100% (Baseline)** | 60-70% | **40-50% better** | | **Heat Check Resistance** | **Excellent** | Good-Very Good | **Significant improvement** | | **Crack Propagation Rate** | **Slow** | Moderate | **Reduced by 30-40%** | ## **Primary Applications** ### **A. Die Casting (Primary Application)** #### **Aluminum Die Casting:** - **Engine Components:** Blocks, heads, transmission cases - **Structural Components:** Automotive frames, brackets - **Thin-Wall Castings:** Electronics housings, consumer products - **High-Pressure Die Casting:** For complex geometries - **Cores and Cavities:** For intricate part features #### **Magnesium Die Casting:** - **Hot Chamber Components:** Nozzles, gooseneck, injection systems - **Thin-Wall Magnesium:** Electronics, automotive components - **Structural Magnesium:** Automotive body components #### **Zinc Die Casting:** - **High-Volume Production:** Fast cycling applications - **Precision Components:** With tight tolerances ### **B. Hot Extrusion** - **Aluminum Extrusion Dies:** For profiles, rods, tubes - **Die Backers and Bolsters:** Support components - **Mandrels and Feeder Plates:** For hollow profiles ### **C. Hot Forging** - **Forging Dies for Aluminum:** Automotive, aerospace components - **Die Inserts:** For high-wear areas - **Punches and Mandrels:** For hot forging operations ### **D. Plastic Molding** - **Hot Runner Systems:** Manifolds, nozzles, gate inserts - **High-Temperature Molds:** For engineering plastics - **Insert Molding Tools:** Where thermal cycling is significant ### **E. Other Applications** - **Glass Molding Tools** - **Press Quenching Dies** - **Heat Treatment Fixtures** - **General Hot Work Tooling** ## **Processing Guidelines** ### **1. Machining Operations** | Operation | Tool Recommendation | Cutting Parameters | Notes | |-----------|---------------------|-------------------|-------| | **Turning** | **Carbide or coated carbide** | Speed: 80-120 m/min
Feed: 0.15-0.30 mm/rev
Depth: 2-5 mm | **Excellent machinability** | | **Milling** | **Carbide end mills** | Speed: 100-150 m/min
Feed/tooth: 0.10-0.25 mm | High material removal rates possible | | **Drilling** | **HSS or carbide drills** | Speed: 20-30 m/min
Feed: 0.10-0.20 mm/rev | Standard drilling practices | | **Tapping** | **HSS or spiral point taps** | Speed: 5-10 m/min | Good chip formation | ***Machinability Rating:** **75-85%** (relative to 1% carbon steel = 100%) – **Better than standard H13*** ### **2. Grinding Operations** - **Wheel Selection:** Aluminum oxide (A46-JV to A60-JV) - **Coolant:** **Essential** – use water-soluble coolant - **Parameters:** Standard grinding practices apply - **Surface Finish:** Can achieve **Ra < 0.1 μm** with proper technique - **Polishing:** **Excellent polishability** – diamond compounds for finest finishes ### **3. Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)** - **Suitability:** **Excellent** – consistent material removal - **Settings:** Standard EDM parameters - **Post-EDM:** Stress relieve at 550-600°C to remove white layer effects - **Surface Finish:** Good as-edited surface quality ### **4. Welding and Repair** - **Weldability:** **Good** – suitable for repair welding - **Preheating:** **300-400°C (570-750°F)** - **Interpass Temperature:** Maintain above 250°C (480°F) - **Electrodes:** **UDDEHOLM UNIMAR 96** or equivalent recommended - **Post-Weld:** Slow cool and re-temper immediately - **Stress Relief:** 550-600°C after welding ### **5. Surface Treatments** #### **Nitriding (Highly Recommended):** - **Methods:** Gas, plasma, or salt bath nitriding - **Temperature:** 480-530°C (895-985°F) - **Case Depth:** 0.10-0.25 mm optimal - **Surface Hardness:** 1000-1200 HV - **Benefits:** Reduced soldering, improved erosion resistance, extended die life #### **PVD Coatings:** - **Recommended:** CrN, TiAlN, AlCrN for specific applications - **Application:** After polishing, before nitriding (if both are used) - **Benefits:** Additional soldering and erosion resistance ## **Quality Assurance** ### **Material Certification** | Certificate Type | Content | Standard | |------------------|---------|----------| | **3.1 Material Certificate** | Full chemical analysis, mechanical properties | EN 10204 | | **Microcleanliness Report** | Inclusion rating per ASTM E45 | Digital image analysis | | **Ultrasonic Test Report** | Internal soundness verification | ASTM E588 / EN 10308 | - **Dimensional Report** | Actual measured dimensions | Customer specifications | | **Heat Treatment Certificate** | When supplied hardened & tempered | Process records | ### **Available Forms and Dimensions** | Product Form | Standard Size Range | Standard Tolerance | Surface Condition | |-------------|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------| | **Pre-machined Blocks** | Up to 800×800×400 mm | ±0.5 mm | Rough machined, stress relieved | | **Round Bars** | Ø50-500 mm | h11 | Black, ground, or peeled | | **Flat Bars** | 20-300 mm thick × 100-800 mm wide | ±0.2 mm thickness | Ground surfaces | | **Custom Forgings** | Customer specifications | As per drawing | As-forged or machined | | **Finished Components** | Die-specific geometries | Drawing tolerances | Heat treated & finished | ## **Comparative Performance Analysis** ### **vs. Standard H13** | Property | ORVAR SUPERIOR | Standard H13 | Improvement | |----------|----------------|--------------|-------------| | **Thermal Fatigue Life** | **100%** | 60-70% | **40-50% better** | | **Impact Toughness** | **100%** | 70-80% | **25-40% better** | | **Machinability** | **100%** | 85-90% | **10-15% better** | | **Polishability** | **100%** | 85-90% | **10-15% better** | | **Dimensional Stability** | **100%** | 90-95% | **5-10% better** | | **Cost** | 120-140% | 100% | Premium | ### **vs. Other Premium Hot Work Steels** | Steel Grade | Best Application | Relative Performance | Relative Cost | |-------------|------------------|---------------------|---------------| | **ORVAR SUPERIOR** | Premium aluminum die casting | **100%** | 100% | | **UDDEHOLM DIEVAR** | Maximum thermal fatigue resistance | 110-120% | 110-120% | | **UDDEHOLM QRO 90** | High conductivity applications | 95-105% | 105-110% | | **Standard H13** | General applications | 70-80% | 70-80% | ## **Application-Specific Guidelines** ### **For Aluminum Die Casting Dies:** 1. **Hardness Selection:** - **Cavities and Cores:** 44-46 HRC - **Ejector Pins:** 46-48 HRC - **Shot Sleeves:** 42-44 HRC - **Cores for Thin Walls:** 46-48 HRC 2. **Heat Treatment:** - **Austenitize at 1010-1020°C** for optimal properties - **Temper at 580-620°C × 2-3 times** - **Final hardness** typically 44-46 HRC 3. **Surface Treatment:** - **Nitriding strongly recommended** - **Case Depth:** 0.15-0.25 mm - **Surface Hardness:** 1000-1100 HV 4. **Die Design Considerations:** - **Cooling Channels:** Optimal design critical - **Radius:** Minimum R3 on internal corners - **Venting:** Proper venting to reduce heat checking ### **Maintenance Best Practices:** 1. **Regular Inspection:** Check for heat checking every 10,000-20,000 shots 2. **Stress Relieving:** Periodic at 550-600°C to extend die life 3. **Polishing:** Use diamond compounds for best results 4. **Welding Repair:** Follow proper procedures for successful repairs 5. **Record Keeping:** Document maintenance history for each die ### **Operating Parameters:** | Parameter | Recommended Range | Notes | |-----------|------------------|-------| | **Die Preheating Temperature** | 180-250°C (355-480°F) | Uniform heating critical | | **Operating Temperature** | 200-400°C (390-750°F) | Monitor with thermocouples | | **Cooling Channel Temperature** | 40-80°C (105-175°F) | Optimize for part geometry | | **Cycle Time** | Standard for application | Material allows optimization | ## **Economic Justification** ### **Cost-Benefit Analysis:** | Factor | ORVAR SUPERIOR Advantage | Economic Impact | |--------|--------------------------|-----------------| | **Extended Die Life** | 30-80% longer than standard H13 | Reduced tooling cost per part | | **Reduced Downtime** | Fewer die repairs and changes | Increased machine utilization | | **Improved Part Quality** | Reduced soldering, better surface | Lower scrap rates | | **Reduced Maintenance** | Less frequent polishing/repair | Lower labor costs | | **Total Cost of Ownership** | **Typically favorable despite higher initial cost** | **Positive ROI in 6-18 months** | ### **When to Select ORVAR SUPERIOR:** 1. **Critical die casting applications** requiring maximum reliability 2. **High-volume production** where extended die life is economically important 3. **Complex dies** with thin sections or intricate features 4. **Applications with severe thermal cycling** 5. **When consistent performance** is critical ### **When Standard H13 May Suffice:** 1. **Low-volume production** 2. **Simple geometries** with low thermal stress 3. **Prototype or development tooling** 4. **Cost-sensitive applications** 5. **Non-critical components** ## **Technical Support Services** ### **Available from Böhler-Uddeholm:** 1. **Application Engineering:** Die design optimization 2. **Heat Treatment Consulting:** Customized cycles for specific applications 3. **Failure Analysis:** Root cause investigation of die failures 4. **Training Programs:** Processing and maintenance workshops 5. **Performance Testing:** Application-specific validation ### **Documentation Provided:** - **Heat Treatment Guidelines:** Detailed procedures and parameters - **Machining Recommendations:** Optimal cutting parameters - **Welding Procedures:** Approved methods for repair - **Case Studies:** Real-world performance examples - **Technical Bulletins:** Updates on best practices --- ## **Critical Technical Notes** ### **Unique Advantages of ORVAR SUPERIOR:** 1. **Premium Quality Control:** Stringent manufacturing standards 2. **Enhanced Cleanliness:** Lower inclusion content than standard grades 3. **Proven Performance:** Extensive field validation in demanding applications 4. **Böhler-Uddeholm Expertise:** Backed by leading tool steel manufacturer ### **Limitations and Considerations:** 1. **Cost Premium:** Higher initial investment than standard H13 2. **Availability:** May have longer lead times than standard grades 3. **Optimal Application Range:** Best for 500-600°C operating range 4. **Not for Extreme Temperatures:** Above 600°C, other materials may be better ### **Industry Acceptance:** - **Widely used** in automotive die casting for critical components - **Preferred by many mold makers** for high-quality tooling - **Recognized as premium H13 solution** in the industry - **Supported by comprehensive technical service** --- **Disclaimer:** UDDEHOLM ORVAR SUPERIOR is a premium hot work tool steel that should be selected based on specific application requirements and economic justification. Consult with Böhler-Uddeholm technical specialists for application-specific recommendations. Performance data based on laboratory testing and field experience; actual performance may vary with specific operating conditions and heat treatment. Always follow current technical documentation and safety guidelines. Proper die design, heat treatment, and maintenance are essential for achieving optimal performance with ORVAR SUPERIOR. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <6859 mm Size:We can customized as required Standard： Per your request or drawing We can customized as required Properties（Theoretical） Chemical Composition -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Bohler-Uddeholm UDDEHOLM ORVAR® SUPERIOR (Premium AISI H13) Hot Work Tool Steel Rod -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Standard Packing: -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and Steel Rod drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 3330 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request. E FORUs’ is carefully handled to minimize damage during storage and transportation and to preserve the quality of our products in their original condition