A2
Data verifiedA2 is an air-hardening 5% chromium cold work steel with much better toughness than D2 and far less distortion than oil-hardening grades. It is the default upgrade from O1 where die size or intricate shapes make quench cracking a risk.
Chemical composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 0.95–1.05 |
| Si | 0.10–0.50 |
| Mn | 0.40–1.00 |
| Cr | 4.75–5.50 |
| Mo | 0.90–1.40 |
| V | 0.15–0.50 |
Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.
Properties
| Delivery condition | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 57–62 HRC |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Toughness | Good for cold work |
Heat treatment
Anneal 840–870 °C slow cool; harden 940–980 °C air; temper 175–230 °C (double temper for stability).
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| din | 1.2363 |
| aisi | A2 |
| jis | SKD12 |
| gb | Cr5Mo1V |
Compare side by side: A2 vs D2 · A2 vs DC53 · A2 vs A4
Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.
Applications & Processing
Applications: Blanking and forming dies, punches, shear blades, slitters, thread rolling dies, gauges.
Processing: Machines acceptably annealed; air hardening keeps movement minimal, so finish-grind stock can be small. EDM surfaces should be stress-relieved.
FAQ
- A2 vs D2 — which for a blanking die?
- D2 lasts longer under pure abrasion; A2 survives chipping and shock better and distorts less. Thin, intricate punches usually belong in A2 or DC53.
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Ask for a quotationVisit NasteelSource: ASTM A681 / EN ISO 4957 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.