Grades · Tool Steel · H12

H12

Data verified

H12 is an H13-family hot work steel with about 1.5% tungsten added and slightly less vanadium. The tungsten improves resistance to softening while toughness stays high, suiting severe thermal shock duty.

Hardness40–52 HRC
DIN1.2606
AISIH12
JISSKD62
CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

ElementContent (%)
C0.30–0.40
Si0.80–1.25
Mn0.20–0.60
Cr4.75–5.50
Mo1.25–1.75
W1.00–1.75
V0.20–0.50

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery conditionAnnealed
Working hardness40–52 HRC
Density7.80 g/cm³
ToughnessBetter than H13 at equal hardness

Heat treatment

Harden 1000–1050 °C air/oil; double temper 550–620 °C.

Equivalent grades

StandardDesignation
din1.2606
aisiH12
jisSKD62
gb4Cr5MoWSiV (near)

Compare side by side: H12 vs H13 · H12 vs H10 · H12 vs SKD61

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Die casting dies, extrusion dies, hot grips and headers, forging dies with water cooling.

Processing: Similar practice to H13; often picked where H13 cracks early under aggressive die cooling.

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Source: 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.