When selecting the right steel for plastic injection molds, two grades consistently stand out: P20 steel and H13 tool steel. Both offer unique advantages depending on the application, production volume, and required mold life.
P20 steel is a low-carbon, chromium-molybdenum alloy known for its excellent machinability and good polishability. It is often pre-hardened, reducing heat treatment steps and speeding up mold manufacturing. P20 is widely used in plastic molds for consumer products, automotive components, and general injection molding where high hardness is not the primary concern.
H13 tool steel , part of the hot-work steel category, offers superior toughness, thermal fatigue resistance, and higher hardness compared to P20. It is ideal for molds that require extended life under high-temperature conditions, such as those used for engineering plastics or high-volume production. H13 is also commonly used in aluminum die-casting molds.
Key comparisons:
· Machinability: P20 is easier to machine than H13.
· Durability: H13 offers better wear and thermal resistance.
· Application: Choose P20 for standard plastic molds; opt for H13 for
high-temperature or high-wear environments, or contact our sales manager directly