Bohler-Uddeholm,BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange

1,We Manufacturing processes are primarily classified into four types: 1:Forging, 2:Casting, 3:Cutting, 4:Rolling. 2,We can manufacture in accordance with these standards. Standards: GB Series (Chinese Standards), JB Series (Machinery Standards), HG Series (Chemical Industry Standards), ASME B16.5 (American Standards), BS4504 (British Standards), DIN (German Standards), and JIS (Japanese Standards). Internationally, there are two primary systems of pipe flange standards: the European system, represented by the German DIN standards (including those of the former Soviet Union), and the American system, represented by the US ANSI pipe flange standards. Other common standards include: the Chinese Ministry of Machinery Industry standards (JB series), the Ministry of Chemical Industry standards (HG series), the Chinese National Standard *GB/T 9112–9124-2010 Steel Pipe Flanges*, as well as US standards (ASME B16.5), British standards (BS4504), German standards (DIN), Japanese standards (JIS), and marine standards (CBM), among others. The nominal pressure ratings for the PN series are designated by "PN" and comprise the following nine levels: PN2.5, PN6, PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN63, PN100, and PN160. The nominal pressure ratings for the Class series are designated by "Class" and comprise the following six levels: Class150, Class300, Class600, Class900, Class1500, and Class2500. Flange Classification 1. **According to Chemical Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Plate Flat Welding Flange (PL), Necked Flat Welding Flange (SO), Necked Butt Welding Flange (WN), Integral Flange (IF), Socket Welding Flange (SW), Threaded Flange (Th), Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange (PJ/SE), Blind Flange (BL), Flat Welding Ring Loose Flange (PJ/PJ), and Lined Blind Flange (BL(s)). 2. **According to Petrochemical (SH) Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Threaded Flange (PL), Butt Welding Flange (WN), Flat Welding Flange (SO), Socket Welding Flange (SW), Loose Flange (LJ), and Blind Flange (no specific designation). 3. **According to Machinery (JB) Industry Standards:** Flanges are classified as follows: Integral Flange, Butt Welding Flange, Plate Flat Welding Flange, Butt Welding Ring Plate Loose Flange, Flat Welding Ring Plate Loose Flange, Lap Joint Ring Plate Loose Flange, and Blind Flange. 4. **According to Connection Method/Type:** Flanges are classified as follows: Plate Flat Welding Flange, Necked Flat Welding Flange, Necked Butt Welding Flange, Socket Welding Flange, Threaded Flange, Blind Flange, Necked Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange, Flat Welding Ring Loose Flange, Ring-Type Joint (RTJ) Flange and Blind Flange, Large-Diameter Plate Flange, Large-Diameter High-Neck Flange, Figure-8 Blind Plate, Butt Welding Ring Loose Flange, etc. 5. **According to the Component Being Connected:** Flanges can be classified into Vessel Flanges and Pipe Flanges. 6. **According to Structural Type:** Flanges include Integral Flanges, Threaded Flanges, Flat Welding Flanges, Butt Welding Flanges, Lap Joint (Loose/Swivel) Flanges, and Blind Flanges. A flange—also referred to as a flange plate or rim—is a component used to connect shafts to one another, or, more commonly, to join the ends of pipes. Flanges are also utilized at the inlet and outlet ports of equipment to facilitate connections between two devices—for instance, the flange on a speed reducer. A "flange connection" or "flanged joint" refers to a detachable joint assembly comprising three interconnected elements—a flange, a gasket, and bolts—that together form a sealed structural unit. In the context of piping systems, a "pipe flange" specifically denotes a flange used for plumbing within the installation; when applied to equipment, it refers to the inlet or outlet flange of that specific device. Flanges feature a series of holes through which bolts are inserted to securely fasten the two flanges together, while a gasket placed between the flanges ensures a leak-proof seal. Flanges are broadly categorized into three types: threaded (screw-in) flanges, welded flanges, and clamp-type flanges. Flanges are invariably used in pairs; threaded flanges are suitable for low-pressure piping applications, whereas welded flanges are required for systems operating at pressures exceeding 4 kilograms per square centimeter. A sealing gasket is inserted between the two flange plates, which are then firmly secured using bolts. The thickness of a flange—as well as the specifications of the bolts used to fasten it—vary depending on the specific pressure rating required for the application. When connecting equipment such as water pumps or valves to piping systems, the corresponding connection points on these devices are often manufactured in the shape of a matching flange; this method of attachment is also referred to as a "flange connection." Generally, any connecting component that utilizes bolts to join and seal the perimeters of two flat surfaces—such as the joints in ventilation ducts—is termed a "flange"; such components may collectively be classified as "flange-type parts." However, since such a connection often constitutes merely a *portion* of a larger device—for instance, the interface between a flange and a water pump—it would be inappropriate to classify the entire water pump itself as a "flange-type part." Conversely, smaller components—such as valves—that feature such flanged interfaces may indeed be appropriately categorized as "flange-type parts." -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange Synonyms -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Product Information -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: # **Böhler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel** ## **Product Overview** **BÖHLER W403 VMR®** is a premium **tungsten-molybdenum-vanadium alloyed hot work tool steel** manufactured using Böhler-Uddeholm's proprietary **VMR® (Vacuum Melted and Remelted)** process. This advanced dual-vacuum melting technology ensures exceptional **internal cleanliness, microstructural homogeneity, and superior isotropy**. Designed as a high-performance, tungsten-based hot work steel, W403 VMR® delivers **outstanding high-temperature strength (red hardness), excellent thermal fatigue resistance, and superior wear resistance at elevated temperatures**. It is particularly suited for demanding applications such as brass forging, high-temperature extrusion, and die-casting where conventional chromium-based hot work steels may soften or wear prematurely. --- ## **1. Key Characteristics & Advantages** * **Exceptional Red Hardness:** Maintains high hardness and mechanical strength at elevated operating temperatures (up to approximately 650°C / 1200°F), superior to H13-type steels. * **Excellent Thermal Fatigue Resistance:** Highly resistant to heat checking and thermal cracking under severe cyclic heating and cooling conditions. * **Superior Wear Resistance at High Temperature:** The combination of tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium carbides provides excellent resistance to abrasive and adhesive wear in hot working environments. * **High Thermal Conductivity:** Better heat dissipation than many other hot work steels, helping to reduce thermal gradients and associated stresses within the tool. * **Good Toughness Balance:** Maintains adequate impact resistance for most hot work applications despite its high alloy content and wear resistance. * **Exceptional Internal Cleanliness:** The VMR® process minimizes non-metallic inclusions and gas content, leading to improved mechanical properties, polishability, and fatigue life. * **Good Dimensional Stability:** Predictable response to heat treatment with minimal distortion due to the homogeneous VMR® microstructure. --- ## **2. Typical Chemical Composition (Weight %)** | Element | Carbon (C) | Tungsten (W) | Molybdenum (Mo) | Chromium (Cr) | Vanadium (V) | | :--- | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | :---: | | **Content** | **0.30 - 0.40** | **8.50 - 10.00** | **1.50 - 2.50** | **3.00 - 4.00** | **1.80 - 2.20** | **Alloying Rationale:** * **Tungsten (9.25%):** The primary alloying element, providing exceptional solid solution strengthening and forming stable carbides that confer high red hardness and resistance to thermal softening. * **Molybdenum (2.0%):** Enhances hardenability, improves toughness, and works synergistically with tungsten to boost high-temperature strength. * **Vanadium (2.0%):** Forms very hard, thermally stable vanadium carbides (VC) that significantly increase wear resistance and contribute to grain refinement. * **Chromium (3.5%):** Provides oxidation resistance, hardenability, and contributes to the overall carbide volume. * **Carbon (0.35%):** Balanced to provide sufficient carbide formation for wear resistance without compromising toughness excessively. * **VMR® Process Impact:** The VIM+VAR process ensures a uniform distribution of these alloying elements, prevents segregation of large tungsten carbides, and creates a clean, isotropic structure that maximizes the potential of the alloy design. --- ## **3. Physical & Mechanical Properties** ### **Physical Properties:** * **Density:** ~8.30 g/cm³ * **Thermal Conductivity:** ~31 W/(m·K) at 20°C * **Modulus of Elasticity:** ~215 GPa * **Coefficient of Thermal Expansion:** ~11.0 × 10⁻⁶/K (20-500°C) ### **Heat Treatment & Mechanical Data:** * **Annealed Hardness:** ~230 HBW * **Austenitizing Temperature:** 1100 - 1150°C (2010 - 2100°F) * **Quenching Medium:** Oil or air (forced air recommended for consistent hardening in larger sections). * **Tempering:** **Multiple tempering cycles (2-3) are essential.** Temperature range: 560 - 620°C (1040 - 1150°F). * **Typical Working Hardness:** **48 - 54 HRC** * **48-51 HRC** (tempered at 580-620°C): For applications prioritizing thermal fatigue resistance (e.g., brass forging dies). * **51-54 HRC** (tempered at 560-590°C): For applications requiring maximum wear resistance and hot strength (e.g., extrusion tooling). * **Hot Hardness:** Maintains approximately 45-48 HRC at 600°C. * **Impact Toughness:** Good for its high-temperature capability, typically in the range of 20-30 J (Charpy U-notch) at 50 HRC. --- ## **4. Primary Applications** W403 VMR® is engineered for severe hot work applications involving high operating temperatures and demanding wear conditions. * **Hot Brass Forging:** Dies and inserts for forging brass valves, fittings, and other components, where its high red hardness resists deformation. * **High-Temperature Extrusion:** Dies and mandrels for extruding copper alloys, nickel alloys, and certain steels. * **Die-Casting:** Core pins, inserts, and nozzle tips for aluminum and magnesium die-casting, especially in areas prone to soldering and erosion. * **Hot Piercing & Punching:** Tools for piercing and punching at elevated temperatures. * **Glass Molding:** Tools for manufacturing glass containers and tableware, where thermal fatigue and wear are concerns. * **Isothermal Forging:** Dies for processes requiring the die to be maintained at a high, constant temperature. * **General Heavy-Duty Hot Work:** Applications where H13 or H11 steels exhibit insufficient hot hardness or excessive wear. --- ## **5. Relevant International Standards & Comparable Grades** W403 VMR® corresponds to several international standards for tungsten-based hot work tool steels, with the VMR® designation signifying premium quality. | Standard | Grade / Designation | Country/Region | Similarity / Note | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **AISI / ASTM A681** | **H21** | USA | Close equivalent in composition and application. W403 VMR® represents the premium, vacuum-remelted quality tier. | | **DIN / Werkstoff** | **1.2581 (X30WCrV9-3)** | Germany/EU | A similar tungsten-chromium hot work steel grade. | | **JIS G4404** | **SKD5** | Japan | The Japanese equivalent tungsten hot work steel. | | **ISO 4957** | **X30WCrV9** | International | International standard designation for this class of steel. | | **GB/T 1299** | **3Cr2W8V** | China | Traditional Chinese tungsten hot work steel with a similar alloying philosophy. | | **Other Designations** | **H20, H22** | Various | Similar tungsten-based grades with minor compositional variations. | **Quality Distinction:** Specifying **"W403 VMR®"** ensures receipt of material that has undergone Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM) followed by Vacuum Arc Remelting (VAR), guaranteeing superior cleanliness, homogeneity, and performance consistency compared to air-melted or single-vacuum melted equivalents. --- ## **6. Processing & Fabrication Guidelines** * **Machining:** Perform all heavy machining in the **soft-annealed condition**. Machinability is fair; it is more abrasive than lower-alloy steels due to its tungsten and vanadium content. Use sharp, wear-resistant carbide tools with rigid setups. * **Heat Treatment:** Requires careful control. 1. **Preheating:** Critical. Use two stages: 600-650°C and 850-900°C to minimize thermal shock. 2. **Austenitizing:** Must be done in a **vacuum or controlled atmosphere furnace** to prevent decarburization and oxidation. 3. **Quenching:** Oil quenching is common for reliable hardening, though air quenching can be used for simple shapes. High-pressure gas quenching is an excellent option for complex tools. 4. **Tempering:** **Immediate and double (or triple) tempering is mandatory.** Allow the tool to cool to room temperature between tempers. * **Stress Relieving:** A stress relief at 600-650°C after rough machining is highly recommended. * **Welding:** Can be welded for repair, but requires expertise. * **Pre-heat:** 400-500°C. * **Filler Metal:** Use a matching or compatible hot work steel filler. * **Post-Weld Heat Treatment:** A full re-hardening and tempering cycle is strongly recommended to restore optimal properties in the heat-affected zone. * **Surface Treatment:** Often nitrided (gas or plasma) to achieve extreme surface hardness (>1000 HV) for enhanced wear and solder resistance in die-casting and extrusion applications. * **EDM:** Suitable. Follow with a low-temperature stress relief (e.g., 400-450°C) to mitigate the effects of the transformed white layer. --- ## **7. Conclusion** **BÖHLER W403 VMR®** is a **high-performance, tungsten-based hot work tool steel** designed for applications where extreme temperatures and wear would degrade conventional chromium-based steels. Its superior red hardness and thermal fatigue resistance make it a specialist material for the most challenging hot work environments. The **VMR® manufacturing process** is not merely an add-on but a fundamental enabler of its performance, ensuring that the high alloy content translates into reliable, consistent tool behavior rather than unpredictable failure. For manufacturers engaged in brass forging, high-temperature extrusion, or demanding die-casting operations where tool life and process stability are critical, W403 VMR® offers a robust and technologically advanced solution. It represents a strategic investment in productivity for applications that operate at the upper limits of hot work tool steel performance. -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Specification Dimensions Size： Diameter 20-1000 mm Length <6900 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 BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Properties -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Applications of Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -: Chemical Identifiers Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange -:- For detailed product information, please contact sales. -:

Packing of Bohler-Uddeholm BÖHLER W403 VMR® Hot Work Tool Steel Flange -:- 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 Flange 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 3371 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