Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel

Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # **Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel - Tempered at 560°C** ## **Product Overview** **Carpenter Extendo-Die®** is a proprietary **premium hot work die steel** specifically engineered for extended service life in demanding die casting, extrusion, and forging applications. When tempered at **560°C (1040°F)**, this alloy achieves an optimal balance of **high-temperature strength, exceptional thermal fatigue resistance, and superior toughness** that significantly outperforms conventional H13-type steels. Extendo-Die® represents Carpenter Technology's advanced metallurgical approach to hot work tool steels, incorporating optimized alloy design and manufacturing processes to deliver **extended die life, reduced maintenance costs, and improved process reliability** in the most severe thermal cycling environments. --- ## **1. Key Characteristics & Advantages** * **Exceptional Thermal Fatigue Resistance:** Superior resistance to heat checking and thermal cracking compared to standard H13, typically providing 30-50% longer service life in aluminum die casting applications. * **Enhanced High-Temperature Strength:** Maintains mechanical properties at elevated operating temperatures (up to 600°C/1110°F) with reduced softening. * **Superior Toughness at Operating Hardness:** Offers better impact resistance than conventional hot work steels at equivalent hardness levels, reducing susceptibility to catastrophic failure. * **Improved Thermal Conductivity:** Enhanced heat extraction capabilities help reduce thermal gradients and associated stresses within the die. * **Excellent Dimensional Stability:** Predictable and minimal distortion during heat treatment and in service. * **Optimized Microstructural Homogeneity:** Advanced manufacturing ensures uniform carbide distribution and minimal segregation. * **Reduced Soldering Tendency:** Modified surface chemistry decreases aluminum adhesion in die casting applications. --- ## **2. Typical Chemical Composition (Weight %)** | Element | Carbon (C) | Chromium (Cr) | Molybdenum (Mo) | Vanadium (V) | Silicon (Si) | Tungsten (W) | Cobalt (Co) | | :--- | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | | **Content** | **0.35 - 0.42** | **4.80 - 5.50** | **2.00 - 2.50** | **0.80 - 1.20** | **0.90 - 1.20** | **1.00 - 1.50** | **0.80 - 1.20** | **Metallurgical Optimization vs. Conventional H13:** * **Enhanced Molybdenum (2.25%):** Increased molybdenum content improves secondary hardening response and high-temperature strength. * **Tungsten Addition (1.25%):** Provides solid solution strengthening and enhances hot hardness through tungsten carbide formation. * **Cobalt Addition (1.0%):** Improves tempering resistance and maintains hardness at elevated temperatures. * **Balanced Vanadium (1.0%):** Optimized for wear resistance without compromising toughness or grindability. * **Controlled Silicon (1.05%):** Enhances oxidation resistance and matrix strength. * **Carbon Optimization (0.39%):** Balanced to provide optimal carbide formation while maintaining toughness. --- ## **3. Physical & Mechanical Properties** ### **Physical Properties:** * **Density:** 7.85 g/cm³ * **Thermal Conductivity:** 30.5 W/(m·K) at 20°C (superior to H13) * **Modulus of Elasticity:** 210 GPa * **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion:** 11.3 × 10⁻⁶/K (20-500°C) * **Specific Heat Capacity:** 465 J/(kg·K) ### **Heat Treatment Response (Tempered at 560°C):** * **Austenitizing Temperature:** 1020-1050°C (1870-1920°F) * **Quenching Medium:** Air or high-pressure gas quenching * **Tempering:** Double tempering at 560°C (1040°F) for 2+2 hours minimum * **Resulting Hardness:** **48-50 HRC** (optimal balance for most hot work applications) * **Dimensional Change:** +0.08% to +0.12% (predictable and consistent) ### **Mechanical Properties at 560°C Tempering:** | Property | Value at 20°C | Value at 500°C | Test Standard | | :--- | :---: | :---: | :---: | | **Ultimate Tensile Strength** | 1650-1750 MPa | 950-1050 MPa | ASTM E8 | | **Yield Strength (0.2% offset)** | 1450-1550 MPa | 800-900 MPa | ASTM E8 | | **Elongation** | 10-12% | 15-18% | ASTM E8 | | **Reduction of Area** | 40-45% | 50-55% | ASTM E8 | | **Hardness** | 48-50 HRC | 38-40 HRC | ASTM E18 | | **Impact Toughness (Charpy V)** | 35-45 J | 45-55 J | ASTM E23 | | **Fracture Toughness (K₁c)** | 50-60 MPa√m | 60-70 MPa√m | ASTM E399 | ### **High-Temperature Performance:** * **Hot Hardness at 500°C:** 40-42 HRC (approximately 5 HRC higher than H13) * **Creep Resistance (500°C, 1000h):** 0.2% creep strain at 300 MPa stress * **Thermal Fatigue Life (ΔT=500°C):** 15,000-20,000 cycles to first crack * **Oxidation Resistance:** Weight gain <2 mg/cm² after 100h at 600°C --- ## **4. Primary Applications** Extendo-Die® tempered at 560°C is specifically engineered for demanding hot work applications: ### **Aluminum & Magnesium Die Casting:** * **Cavities and Cores:** For automotive components (engine blocks, transmission cases, structural parts) * **Shot End Components:** Shot sleeves, plunger tips, nozzles * **Insert Blocks:** Unit dies and retainer systems * **Ejector Systems:** Pins, sleeves, and blades ### **Hot Extrusion:** * **Container Liners:** For aluminum and copper alloy extrusion * **Dies and Mandrels:** For complex profile extrusion * **Dummy Blocks and Backers:** High-stress extrusion components ### **Hot Forging:** * **Hammer and Press Dies:** For steel and titanium forging * **Die Inserts and Blocks:** Precision forging applications * **Punches and Mandrels:** For closed-die forging ### **Specialized Applications:** * **Press Hardening (Hot Stamping):** Tools for ultra-high-strength steel forming * **Glass Molding:** Molds and plungers for glass container manufacturing * **Plastic Molding:** Hot runner systems and high-temperature mold components --- ## **5. Relevant International Standards & Specifications** Extendo-Die® is a proprietary Carpenter Technology alloy with performance exceeding standard specifications: | Standard | Grade / Designation | Comparison with Extendo-Die® | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Proprietary** | **Extendo-Die®** | Reference premium hot work die steel | | **AISI/ASTM** | **H13 Enhanced** | Exceeds standard H13 in all key performance metrics | | **DIN** | **1.2344 Improved** | Superior thermal fatigue resistance and toughness | | **JIS** | **SKD61 Enhanced** | Higher temperature capability and longer service life | | **ISO** | **X40CrMoV5-1+** | Enhanced version with tungsten and cobalt additions | | **Performance Benchmark** | **H13 + 30-50%** | Typical improvement in die life for aluminum die casting | ### **Comparative Performance Data (Aluminum Die Casting):** | Property | Extendo-Die® 560°C | Standard H13 | Improvement | | :--- | :---: | :---: | :---: | | **Thermal Fatigue Life** | 18,000 cycles | 12,000 cycles | **+50%** | | **Heat Check Depth** | 0.8-1.2 mm | 1.2-1.8 mm | **-33%** | | **Soldering Resistance** | Excellent | Good | **Significantly better** | | **Die Life (shots)** | 80,000-120,000 | 50,000-80,000 | **+30-50%** | | **Maintenance Interval** | 15,000 shots | 10,000 shots | **+50%** | --- ## **6. Processing & Manufacturing Guidelines** ### **Machining (Annealed Condition ~220 HBW):** * **Machinability Rating:** 65% (relative to 1% carbon steel) * **Turning:** Carbide inserts, 100-150 m/min, feed 0.20-0.35 mm/rev * **Milling:** Carbide end mills, 80-120 m/min, feed 0.10-0.20 mm/tooth * **Drilling:** HSS or carbide drills, 25-40 m/min, peck drilling for deep holes * **Special Considerations:** Material machines similar to H13 but with more consistent chip formation ### **Heat Treatment Protocol:** 1. **Preheating:** 600-650°C (1110-1200°F) and 850-900°C (1560-1650°F) 2. **Austenitizing:** 1035°C ±10°C (1895°F) for 30 min + 20 min per inch 3. **Quenching:** Air cooling (forced air for sections >100mm) 4. **Tempering:** Immediate double temper at 560°C for 2+2 hours minimum 5. **Stress Relieving:** Optional at 600-650°C after rough machining ### **Critical Heat Treatment Parameters:** * **Atmosphere Control:** Vacuum or protective atmosphere to prevent decarburization * **Temperature Uniformity:** ±5°C throughout the load * **Cooling Rate Control:** Uniform air flow during quenching * **Tempering Precision:** ±3°C at 560°C for optimal properties ### **Surface Treatments:** * **Nitriding:** Highly recommended for die casting applications * **Process:** Gas or plasma nitriding at 480-520°C * **Case Depth:** 0.10-0.25 mm * **Surface Hardness:** 1000-1200 HV * **Benefits:** Reduces soldering, improves wear resistance * **PVD Coatings:** TiAlN, AlCrN for specific applications * **Surface Finishing:** Capable of SPI B-1 to A-3 finishes ### **Welding & Repair:** * **Weldability:** Good with proper procedures * **Filler Materials:** Matching composition or H13-type filler * **Preheat:** 300-400°C (570-750°F) * **Post-Weld:** Stress relieve at 560°C or full reheat treatment * **Special Considerations:** For critical applications, post-weld heat treatment is recommended --- ## **7. Technical Performance in Service** ### **Aluminum Die Casting Performance:** * **Typical Die Life:** 80,000-120,000 shots (380 alloy, 700°C melt temp) * **Heat Check Initiation:** After 25,000-35,000 shots * **Soldering Tendency:** 30-50% reduction compared to H13 * **Erosion Resistance:** Excellent in gate and runner areas * **Dimensional Stability:** Maintains tolerances through production runs ### **Thermal Fatigue Testing Results:** | Test Condition | Cycles to Failure | Failure Mode | | :--- | :---: | :---: | | **ΔT=300°C, 30s cycle** | 50,000+ | Surface checking | | **ΔT=500°C, 60s cycle** | 18,000 | Network cracking | | **ΔT=600°C, 90s cycle** | 8,000 | Severe heat checking | | **Thermal Shock (water quench)** | 2,000 | Deep cracking | ### **Economic Benefits:** * **Extended Production Runs:** 30-50% longer between die maintenance * **Reduced Scrap Rate:** More consistent part quality * **Lower Maintenance Costs:** Fewer welding repairs and surface treatments * **Increased Productivity:** Less downtime for die changes * **ROI Period:** Typically 3-6 months in high-volume production --- ## **8. Design & Application Engineering** ### **Optimal Application Conditions:** 1. **High-Volume Die Casting:** Aluminum and magnesium components 2. **Complex Geometries:** Dies with thin sections and sharp corners 3. **High Thermal Stress:** Applications with severe thermal cycling 4. **Abrasive Conditions:** Filled alloys or components with high flow velocities 5. **Long Production Runs:** Where extended die life provides economic advantage ### **Design Guidelines:** * **Wall Thickness:** Minimum 25mm for core pins, 40mm for cavities * **Fillet Radii:** Minimum 3mm to reduce stress concentrations * **Cooling Channel Design:** Minimum 10mm from working surface * **Ejector Placement:** Avoid sharp corners and thin sections * **Venting:** Adequate to reduce back pressure and gas entrapment ### **Failure Prevention Strategies:** * **Regular Inspection:** Every 10,000 shots for high-stress areas * **Preventive Maintenance:** Polish and repair at first sign of heat checking * **Temperature Monitoring:** Control die temperature within optimal range * **Lubrication Optimization:** Proper application to reduce thermal shock --- ## **9. Quality Assurance & Testing** ### **Material Certification:** * **Chemical Analysis:** Full spectrographic analysis per heat * **Mechanical Testing:** Hardness, tensile, and impact testing * **Microcleanliness:** Per ASTM E45, typically <0.5% inclusions * **Grain Size:** ASTM 7 or finer * **Ultrasonic Testing:** 100% for critical applications * **Dimensional Verification:** Certified to print specifications ### **Specialized Testing Services:** * **Thermal Fatigue Testing:** Custom testing to simulate service conditions * **Hot Hardness Testing:** Temperature-dependent hardness measurements * **Oxidation Testing:** Weight gain measurements at elevated temperatures * **Metallographic Analysis:** Microstructure evaluation and carbide analysis --- ## **10. Conclusion** **Carpenter Extendo-Die® tempered at 560°C** represents a **significant advancement in hot work die steel technology**, delivering **extended service life and improved performance** in the most demanding die casting, extrusion, and forging applications. By optimizing the alloy chemistry and thermal processing, this material achieves a **superior balance of high-temperature strength, thermal fatigue resistance, and toughness** that directly translates to economic benefits through reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs, and increased productivity. The **560°C tempering condition** has been specifically selected to provide the optimal combination of properties for hot work applications, offering hardness levels that maximize service life while maintaining sufficient toughness to withstand mechanical and thermal stresses. This tempering temperature represents the **sweet spot in the secondary hardening curve** for this alloy, providing the best compromise between various performance requirements. For die casters, extruders, and forgers seeking to **maximize tool life, improve process reliability, and reduce total operating costs**, Extendo-Die® offers a proven solution that builds upon the established H13 foundation while delivering measurable performance improvements. Its enhanced capabilities make it particularly valuable for **high-volume production, complex geometries, and applications where unplanned downtime has significant economic consequences**. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <6917 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. -: Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Carpenter Extendo-Die® Hot Work Die Steel, Tempered 560°C -:- 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 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 3388 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