Tool Steel D2 vs A2: Which Die Steel for Your Application?

D2 provides maximum wear resistance for cutting and blanking operations. A2 offers better toughness and dimensional stability with minimal distortion during air hardening, ideal for precision tooling.

Side-by-Side Property Comparison

PropertyTool Steel D2Tool Steel A2
Tensile Strength862 MPa (125 ksi)896 MPa (130 ksi)
Yield Strength690 MPa (100 ksi)724 MPa (105 ksi)
Hardness58-62 HRC57-62 HRC
Density7.70 g/cm³7.86 g/cm³
Machinability Rating27/10040/100
Thermal Conductivity20.0 W/m·K24.0 W/m·K
Melting Point1,421 °C1,420 °C
Tolerance±0.01 mm±0.01 mm

Key Differences

PropertyTool Steel D2Tool Steel A2Winner
Wear ResistanceExcellentGoodTool
ToughnessLowGoodTool
Dimensional StabilityGoodExcellent (air harden)Tool
Hardness58-62 HRC57-62 HRCTie
Machinability27/10040/100Tool
Chromium Content12% (semi-stainless)5%Tool

Which Material Should You Choose?

Choose Tool Steel D2 when:

  • Blanking and stamping dies
  • Long-run cutting tools
  • Parts requiring maximum wear life
  • Slitters and forming rolls
  • Gauges and wear surfaces
View Details Tool Steel D2

Choose Tool Steel A2 when:

  • Precision tooling with tight tolerances
  • Punches requiring toughness
  • Trimming dies
  • Plastic mold components
  • Parts needing minimal heat-treat distortion
View Details Tool Steel A2

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