Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel

Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # **SCHMOLZ + BICKENBACH Holder Block Series | Specialized Plastic Mold Base Steels** ## **Overview** The SCHMOLZ + BICKENBACH **Holder Block** series represents a family of pre-hardened, optimized mold base steels engineered specifically for the structural components of plastic injection molds. These steels prioritize **exceptional machinability, dimensional stability, and cost-effectiveness** in large cross-sections over the extreme polishability or wear resistance required for cavity steels. Developed to meet the demanding productivity requirements of mold making, the Holder Block grades enable faster machining, longer tool life, and reduced manufacturing costs for mold bases, plates, and support structures while providing the necessary mechanical integrity for mold operation. ## **Key Product Lines & Selection Guide** | Grade Designation | Key Characteristic | Primary Application | Machinability vs. 1.2311 | |-------------------|-------------------|---------------------|---------------------------| | **Formadur® 2312 (Ultra Holder)** | Premium Free-Machining | High-precision mold bases, complex plates | **Superior (110-120%)** | | **Formadur® X (Economy Holder)** | Cost-Optimized Free-Machining | Standard mold bases, large backing plates | **Excellent (105-115%)** | | **Formadur® 2738 (Large Block)** | Enhanced Hardenability | Very large mold bases (>1000mm), heavy sections | **Good (90-100%)** | --- ## **Detailed Specifications** ### **1. Chemical Composition (wt%) - Comparative Analysis** | Element | Formadur® 2312 | Formadur® X | Formadur® 2738 | Function in Holder Blocks | |---------|----------------|-------------|----------------|---------------------------| | **Carbon (C)** | 0.33-0.40 | 0.33-0.40 | 0.35-0.40 | Base strength | | **Silicon (Si)** | ≤0.40 | ≤0.40 | ≤0.40 | Deoxidizer | | **Manganese (Mn)** | 1.40-1.60 | 1.40-1.60 | 1.40-1.60 | Combines with S, hardenability | | **Chromium (Cr)** | 1.80-2.00 | 1.60-1.90 | 1.80-2.10 | Hardenability, corrosion resistance | | **Molybdenum (Mo)** | 0.15-0.25 | 0.15-0.25 | 0.15-0.30 | Hardenability, strength | | **Nickel (Ni)** | - | - | 0.90-1.20 | **Key for thick-section hardening** | | **Sulfur (S)** | **0.040-0.060** | **0.030-0.050** | ≤0.003 | **Free-machining agent** | | **Phosphorus (P)** | ≤0.030 | ≤0.030 | ≤0.015 | Controlled for toughness | **Composition Philosophy:** - **Free-Machining Grades (2312 & X):** Controlled sulfur creates MnS inclusions that act as internal lubricants/chip breakers - **Heavy Section Grade (2738):** Nickel addition ensures consistent hardness through large cross-sections (>1000mm) - **Balanced Alloying:** Minimum necessary alloying for function to maximize cost-effectiveness ### **2. Physical & Mechanical Properties** #### **Delivery Condition & Core Properties:** | Property | Formadur® 2312 | Formadur® X | Formadur® 2738 | Test Standard | |----------|----------------|-------------|----------------|---------------| | **Delivery Hardness** | 290-330 HB (29-33 HRC) | 280-320 HB (28-32 HRC) | 290-330 HB (29-33 HRC) | DIN 50103 | | **Tensile Strength** | 950-1050 MPa | 900-1000 MPa | 1000-1150 MPa | ISO 6892-1 | | **0.2% Yield Strength** | 800-900 MPa | 750-850 MPa | 850-950 MPa | ISO 6892-1 | | **Elongation A₅** | ≥12% | ≥12% | ≥14% | ISO 6892-1 | | **Impact Toughness** | 25-35 J* | 25-35 J* | 40-60 J | ISO 148-1 | | **Modulus of Elasticity** | ~210 GPa | ~210 GPa | ~210 GPa | ISO 6892-1 | **\*Anisotropy Note:** Free-machining grades (2312 & X) exhibit directional properties. Impact values are longitudinal; transverse values are 40-60% lower. #### **Through-Hardening Characteristics:** | Grade | Maximum Section for Uniform Hardness | Maximum Achievable Hardness (If Hardened) | |-------|--------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | 2312 | ~400mm | 52-54 HRC | | X | ~400mm | 52-54 HRC | | 2738 | **>1000mm** | 52-54 HRC | ### **3. Machining & Processing Performance** #### **Machinability Comparison:** | Operation | Formadur® 2312 | Formadur® X | Formadur® 2738 | |-----------|----------------|-------------|----------------| | **Turning Speed** | 120-180 m/min | 110-160 m/min | 90-130 m/min | | **Milling Feed** | 0.20-0.35 mm/tooth | 0.18-0.30 mm/tooth | 0.15-0.25 mm/tooth | | **Drilling Speed** | 60-100 m/min | 55-90 m/min | 45-75 m/min | | **Tool Life Index** | 130-150% | 120-140% | 100% (baseline) | | **Chip Formation** | Short, broken chips | Short, broken chips | Longer, continuous chips | **Machining Recommendations:** - **Tooling:** Carbide tools with positive rake geometry - **Coolant:** Emulsion or oil-based for optimal tool life - **Parameters:** Start at mid-range, optimize for specific operation #### **Finishing Characteristics:** | Surface Operation | Free-Machining Grades (2312/X) | 2738 Grade | |-------------------|--------------------------------|------------| | **Polishability** | Good (SPI B1/B2 max) | Very Good (SPI A2/B1 possible) | | **EDM Performance** | Very Good | Excellent | | **Texturing** | Suitable for medium textures | Suitable for fine textures | | **Grinding** | Good | Excellent | ### **4. Thermal & Dimensional Properties** | Property | All Holder Block Grades | Importance for Mold Bases | |----------|------------------------|---------------------------| | **Thermal Conductivity** | 36-38 W/m·K @ 20°C | Heat transfer from cavities | | **Coefficient of Expansion** | 11.0-11.5 ×10⁻⁶/K (20-100°C) | Dimensional stability during cycles | | **Specific Heat Capacity** | 460-480 J/kg·K | Thermal mass consideration | | **Distortion during Machining** | Low to Moderate | Critical for plate flatness | --- ## **International Standards & Cross-References** ### **Primary Standard References:** | International Standard | Formadur® 2312 | Formadur® X | Formadur® 2738 | |-----------------------|----------------|-------------|----------------| | **DIN/EN/W-Nr.** | 1.2312 | - | 1.2738 | | **ISO 4957** | - | - | - | | **AISI/ASTM** | P20+S | Modified P20 | P20+Ni (Modified) | | **JIS G4404** | - | - | - | | **GB/T 1299** | 3Cr2MoS* | 3Cr2MoS* | 3Cr2NiMo | ### **Competitor Equivalents:** - **Uddeholm:** IMPAX® Hi-Hard (2312), IMPAX® Supreme (2738) - **Böhler:** M238 (2312), M300 (2738) - **ThyssenKrupp:** GS-312 (2312), GS-312M (2738) - **Daido:** NAK 55 (similar concept) --- ## **Product Applications** ### **Primary Application Matrix:** | Mold Component | Recommended Grade | Why This Grade? | |----------------|-------------------|-----------------| | **Standard Mold Base Sets (A/B Plates)** | Formadur® X | Optimal balance of cost and machinability | | **Large, Complex Mold Bases (>800mm)** | Formadur® 2738 | Consistent hardness in thick sections | | **High-Precision Base Plates** | Formadur® 2312 | Best machining precision and stability | | **Backing/Support Plates** | Formadur® X | Cost-effective for non-critical surfaces | | **Ejector Housing Plates** | Formadur® 2312 | Superior machinability for complex pockets | | **Clamping Plates** | Formadur® X | Adequate strength, maximum cost efficiency | | **Large Cavity Support Blocks** | Formadur® 2738 | Strength and stability under load | ### **Industry-Specific Applications:** - **Automotive:** Large mold bases for bumper, dashboard, interior panels - **Packaging:** Stack mold bases, thin-wall container molds - **Electronics:** Precision base plates for connector molds - **Medical:** Stable bases for high-cavitation molds - **Consumer Goods:** Cost-effective bases for high-volume production ### **Limitations & Non-Recommended Uses:** - **Cavity/Core Inserts:** Insufficient polishability and wear resistance - **Hot Runner Components:** Inadequate thermal properties - **High-Wear Applications:** Lacks necessary surface hardness - **Corrosive Environments:** Limited corrosion resistance without treatment --- ## **Processing Guidelines** ### **Standard Workflow for Mold Base Manufacturing:** 1. **Material Selection:** Choose grade based on size, complexity, and budget 2. **Rough Machining:** Remove bulk material using aggressive parameters 3. **Stress Relieving (Optional):** 550-600°C for 2-4 hours for large/complex plates 4. **Semi-Finish Machining:** Establish critical datums and features 5. **Aging/Stabilization:** 24-48 hours at room temperature 6. **Finish Machining:** Achieve final dimensions and tolerances 7. **Fit & Assembly:** Machine guiding/locking features ### **Special Considerations:** - **Flatness:** Allow for stress relief and multiple machining passes - **Thread Quality:** Use proper taps and lubrication (MnS inclusions can affect thread quality in free-machining grades) - **Welding:** Generally not recommended; if necessary, use strict procedures - **Surface Treatment:** Nitriding possible but not typical for holder applications --- ## **Quality & Supply Specifications** ### **Standard Delivery Forms:** - **Blocks:** Up to 3000mm length, various cross-sections - **Plates:** Precision ground or rough sawn surfaces - **Special Shapes:** Custom forged or machined near-net shapes ### **Quality Assurance:** - **Ultrasonic Testing:** Standard for larger sections (>200mm) - **Hardness Testing:** Multiple points, full cross-section mapping available - **Chemical Certification:** EN 10204 3.1 material certificates - **Dimensional Reports:** Machined-to-print capabilities ### **Surface Conditions Available:** 1. **Black (as-forged/rolled):** Most economical 2. **Rough Machined:** Removed scale, closer to final dimensions 3. **Precision Ground:** Ready for final machining, premium option --- ## **Economic Advantages** ### **Total Cost of Ownership Analysis:** | Cost Factor | Holder Block vs. Cavity Steel | |-------------|-------------------------------| | **Material Cost** | 40-60% lower than premium cavity steels | | **Machining Time** | 20-40% faster due to free-machining properties | | **Tooling Cost** | 30-50% longer tool life | | **Scrap Rate** | Lower due to easier machining control | | **Lead Time** | Shorter due to pre-hardened state | ### **ROI Considerations:** - **Large Mold Bases:** Highest savings potential (>€5,000 per base) - **High-Machining Content:** Optimal for complex pocketing operations - **Production Molds:** Justified by reduced manufacturing time - **Prototype Molds:** Faster turnaround with adequate performance --- **Disclaimer:** The information provided is for general reference based on typical SCHMOLZ + BICKENBACH Holder Block steel properties. Specific applications may require consultation with technical experts. Properties can vary within specified ranges and are influenced by processing conditions, section size, and heat treatment. Always refer to the latest manufacturer specifications and conduct appropriate testing for critical applications. The selection of mold steel should be based on comprehensive analysis of application requirements, including production volume, plastic material, part geometry, and surface finish requirements. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <7121 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. -: Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Schmolz + Bickenbach Holder Block Plastic Mold Steel -:- 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 3592 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