How Carbide Precipitation Affects the Wear Resistance of D2 Tool Steel - TGK Special Steel
Understanding D2 Tool Steel's Microstructure D2 tool steel has earned its reputation as a premium air-hardening cold work steel largely due to its high carbon content (approximately 1.5%) and substantial chromium addition (11-13%). These alloying elements combine to form an abundance of hard chromium carbides distributed throughout the steel matrix. The nature, size, and distribution of these carbides fundamentally determine the wear resistance and service life of D2 tooling. For engineers specifying cutting dies, punches, and forming tools, understanding carbide behavior separates adequate tool performance from exceptional longevity. The Science of Carbide Formation During solidification and subsequent heat treatment, carbon atoms combine with chromium to precipitate as chromium carbides (primarily Cr7C3 and Cr23C6). These carbides achieve hardness levels approaching 1800 HV on the Vickers scale—significantly harder than the surrounding steel matrix. This hardness differenti...