A Buyer's Guide to DC53 (DC53 cold work tool steel)

Buying DC53 (DC53 cold work tool steel) is straightforward once the delivery condition, the section size and the inspection level are agreed in writing. Most problems with this grade family come from vague enquiries rather than from the steel itself.

What the grade is

DC53 cold work tool steel belongs to the modified cold work tool steel family. Its defining characteristic is that a modified 8 percent chromium die steel that gives higher toughness than D2 at the same hardness, which reduces chipping on thin edges. That single property is the reason engineers select it, and it should drive everything else in the purchase specification.

Typical properties

In the condition in which it is normally supplied or used, the grade is quoted as hardened and tempered to 60 to 62 HRC. These figures are only meaningful when they are tied to a section size, a test position and a heat treatment condition, so ask for all three.

Where it is used

The usual applications are precision punches and dies, fine blanking tooling and cold heading dies. Outside these applications the grade may still work, but the reason for choosing it usually disappears and a cheaper steel will do the same job.

Heat treatment and processing

Austenitise at 1020 to 1040 C and quench in vacuum or oil, then temper twice at 520 to 560 C. The higher tempering temperature is what produces the characteristic toughness improvement.

What to specify when ordering

Require the hardness range, the carbide distribution rating and the heat treatment cycle. Substitutes sold under the name often have a different carbon and chromium balance and will not reach the same toughness.

Hubei Keyspark Special Steel Co., Ltd. runs two 20-ton EAF furnaces, two 20-ton LF ladle furnaces, a 20-ton VD unit and a 5-ton ESR furnace, with open-die forging, 12 precision heat treatment furnaces, four vacuum annealing furnaces and over twenty machining centres. Annual capacity is about 15,000 tonnes.

Website: https://keysparksteel.com/

Email: sales@keysparksteel.com

Mobile/WhatsApp: +86 15024056480