H21 vs 3Cr2W8V
These two grades are listed as equivalents of each other: their chemistry windows overlap and they serve the same applications. They are not always identical — check the differences below before substituting, especially in certified designs.
H21
Tool Steel
H21 is the classic 9% tungsten hot work steel, long the standard for brass extrusion and hot die work in Asia as 3Cr2W8V. It holds hardness at die temperatures where chromium steels fade, at the cost of toughness.
Standards: DIN 1.2581 · AISI H21 · JIS SKD5 · GB 3Cr2W8V
3Cr2W8V
Tool Steel
3Cr2W8V is the GB/T 1299 tungsten hot work steel, the Chinese designation of the H21 family. It remains widely stocked in China for brass extrusion and hot die applications despite its brittleness versus H13.
Standards: DIN 1.2581 · AISI H21 · JIS SKD5 · GB 3Cr2W8V
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | H21 | 3Cr2W8V |
|---|---|---|
| C | 0.26–0.36 | 0.30–0.40 |
| Si | 0.15–0.50 | 0.20–0.40 |
| Mn | 0.15–0.40 | ≤0.40 |
| Cr | 3.00–3.75 | 2.20–2.70 |
| W | 8.50–10.00 | 7.50–9.00 |
| V | 0.30–0.60 | 0.20–0.50 |
Properties compared
| Property | H21 | 3Cr2W8V |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Working hardness | 36–48 HRC | 38–48 HRC |
| Density | 8.20 g/cm³ | 8.20 g/cm³ |
| Hot hardness | High (9% tungsten) | High (8% tungsten) |
Sourcing either grade?
Nasteel stocks both families from Shenzhen with EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates by heat number.
Ask for a quotationSee full data sheets: H21 · 3Cr2W8V. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.