Cr12MoV 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.
Cr12MoV
Tool Steel
Cr12MoV is China’s D2-family cold work steel (GB/T 1299), with somewhat less molybdenum and vanadium than AISI D2 / 1.2379. It is the most specified die steel in Chinese mold and press shops.
Standards: DIN 1.2379 (family) · AISI D2 (family) · JIS SKD11 (family) · GB Cr12MoV
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 | Cr12MoV | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| C | 1.45–1.70 | 1.45–1.60 |
| Si | ≤0.40 | 0.10–0.60 |
| Mn | ≤0.40 | 0.20–0.60 |
| Cr | 11.00–12.50 | 11.00–13.00 |
| Mo | 0.40–0.60 | 0.70–1.00 |
| V | 0.15–0.30 | 0.70–1.00 |
Properties compared
| Property | Cr12MoV | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery condition | Annealed | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 58–62 HRC | 58–62 HRC |
| Density | 7.70 g/cm³ | 7.70 g/cm³ |
| Wear resistance | — | 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: Cr12MoV · D2. Substitution decisions for certified parts stay with the design authority.