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1.2316 Corrosion-Resistant Tool Steel for Plastic Molds

1.2316 is a widely used plastic mold steel that belongs to the Germany standard DIN 17350. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high polishability, and good machinability, making it particularly suitable for manufacturing plastic injection molds, especially when processing corrosive plastics . Due to its common usage and superior performance, many countries have equivalent steel grades to DIN 1.2316, such as: X36CrMo17 from International standard ISO 4957, SUS420J2 from Japan standard JIS G4303.

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Product Overview


1.2316 tool steel is a premium plastic mold steel standardized under DIN 17350, widely recognized for its versatility and performance in mold manufacturing. As an equivalent to ISO X36CrMo17 and JIS SUS420J2, it bridges international standards, making it a go-to choice for global manufacturers.


This steel is engineered to meet the demanding needs of plastic injection molding, where resistance to corrosion, ease of machining, and high polishability are critical. Supplied in a pre-hardened state, it minimizes post-processing steps, allowing for direct machining into precision molds—reducing production time and costs. Its chemical composition, highlighted by 15-17% chromium and 1.00-1.30% molybdenum, forms the foundation of its superior properties, setting it apart from standard carbon steels.


Features


Corrosion Resistance


At the core of 1.2316’s appeal is its exceptional resistance to corrosion, driven by its high chromium content (15-17%). This makes it ideal for molds exposed to corrosive plastics, such as PVC or fluorine-based materials, which release harsh gases during processing. Unlike lower-chromium steels, 1.2316 resists pitting and rust, extending mold lifespan even in humid or chemical-rich environments.


Machinability


1.2316 is supplied in a pre-hardened state, eliminating the need for additional heat treatment before machining. This characteristic simplifies production workflows, as manufacturers can directly shape it into complex mold geometries using standard tools. Its balanced composition—with max 1.00% silicon and max 1.00% manganese—ensures consistent cutting performance, reducing tool wear and downtime.


High Polishability


For applications requiring mirror-like finishes (e.g., optical lenses or cosmetic packaging), 1.2316 delivers exceptional polishability. Its low impurity levels—with max 0.030% phosphorus and max 0.030% sulfur—prevent surface defects, allowing for finishes as smooth as Ra ≤ 0.05μm. This makes it a top choice for high-aesthetic plastic parts.


Hardness and Wear Resistance


After hardening and tempering, 1.2316 achieves a minimum hardness of HRC46, ensuring durability against repeated molding cycles. The addition of molybdenum (1.00-1.30%) enhances wear resistance, making it suitable for high-volume production runs where molds face constant friction.


Applications


Plastic Injection Molds

1.2316 excels in manufacturing molds for corrosive plastics, including PVC, flame-retardant ABS+PC blends, and reinforced plastics. Its corrosion resistance prevents mold degradation from gas emissions, maintaining precision over time. It is also preferred for high-gloss parts like car lights and display light guide plates, where its polishability ensures flawless surface finishes.


Medical Equipment Molds

In the medical industry, 1.2316 is used to produce molds for syringes, infusion bottles, and catheters. Its ability to withstand sterilization processes (e.g., autoclaving) and resist chemical exposure aligns with strict hygiene standards, making it a reliable choice for sterile medical components.


Die-Casting Auxiliary Parts

For aluminum and magnesium alloy die-casting, 1.2316 is employed in inserts, sprue sets, and die nuts. These parts contact molten metal but do not bear high pressure, leveraging the steel’s heat resistance and corrosion resistance to extend service life.


Blow Molds

1.2316 is ideal for PET bottle embryo molds, used in food-grade packaging. Its polishability meets food safety requirements, while its corrosion resistance ensures compatibility with cleaning agents, maintaining mold integrity in food production environments.


Steel Equivalent


Country

Standard

Grade

ISO

ISO 4957

X36CrMo17

Germany

DIN 17350

1.2316

Japan

JIS G4303

SUS420J2


Chemical Composition


Grade

C

Si

Mn

P

S

Cr

Mo

V

X36CrMo17/1.2316

0.33-0.43

1.00Max

1.00Max

0.030Max

0.030Max

15-17

1.00-1.30

1.00Max

SUS420J2

0.26-0.40

1.00Max

1.00Max

0.040Max

0.030Max

12-14

/

/


Surface Hardness and Hardenability


Heat Treatment

Hardness

Annealed (+A)

HB285Max

Hardening and Tempering (+HT)

HRC46 Min


Supply Size & Tolerance


Product type

Size range

Length

Hot rolled bar

Φ10-Φ190mm

2000-5800mm

Hot forged bar

Φ200-Φ600mm

2000-5800mm

Hot rolled plate/sheet

T:10-60mm; W:310-810mm

2000-5800mm

Hot forged plate

T:70-250mm; W:310-810mm

2000-5800mm

Hot Forged block

T: 260-500mm; W: 300-1000mm

2000-5800mm


FAQ


What makes 1.2316 different from other plastic mold steels?

1.2316 stands out due to its combination of high corrosion resistance (from 15-17% chromium), pre-hardened supply state, and superior polishability. Unlike steels like P20, it resists chemical attack from corrosive plastics, making it suitable for harsher applications.


Can 1.2316 be used for non-plastic applications?

Yes. While primarily designed for plastic molds, its wear resistance and hardness (HRC46 min after heat treatment) make it suitable for small die-casting parts and chemical industry components like valves.


What heat treatment is recommended for 1.2316?

For optimal hardness, heat to 900-1010℃ in a salt bath, quench in oil, then temper at 170-190℃. Annealing at 780-820℃ (followed by slow furnace cooling) reduces hardness for easier machining.


Is SUS420J2 interchangeable with 1.2316?

SUS420J2 (JIS) is an equivalent grade but has slightly lower chromium (12-14%) and no molybdenum. It works for less demanding applications, but 1.2316 is preferred for high corrosion resistance needs.


What stock sizes are available for 1.2316?

Stock includes hot rolled plates with thicknesses from 21mm to 121mm, hot rolled bars (Φ10-Φ190mm), and forged blocks (up to 500mm thick). Stocks update daily, so contact us for real-time availability.


1.2316 tool steel combines durability, versatility, and precision, making it a trusted choice for manufacturers worldwide. Whether for medical devices, high-gloss plastics, or corrosive environments, it delivers consistent performance across diverse applications.


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