D3 vs D2
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.
D3
Tool Steel
D3 is an ultra-high-carbon chromium steel with even more carbide than D2 and no Mo/V additions. It maximizes abrasive wear life at the lowest cost, but with the lowest toughness of the D-family.
Standards: DIN 1.2080 · AISI D3 · JIS SKD1 · GB Cr12
D2
Tool Steel
D2 is the world-standard high-carbon, high-chromium cold work tool steel. Massive chromium carbides give exceptional abrasive wear resistance and long die life in blanking and forming.
Standards: DIN 1.2379 · AISI D2 · JIS SKD11 · GB Cr12Mo1V1
Chemical composition compared (%)
| Element | D3 | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 1.90–2.20 | 1.45–1.60 |
| Si | 0.10–0.60 | 0.10–0.60 |
| Mn | 0.20–0.60 | 0.20–0.60 |
| Cr | 11.00–13.00 | 11.00–13.00 |
| Mo | — | 0.70–1.00 |
| V | — | 0.70–1.00 |
Properties compared
| Property | D3 | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 58–64 HRC | 58–62 HRC |
| Density | 7.70 g/cm³ | 7.70 g/cm³ |
| Wear resistance | Extreme (abrasive) | Very high |
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: D3 · D2. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.