Grades · Tool Steel · 1.2436 (D6)

1.2436 (D6)

Data verified

1.2436 is the tungsten-bearing D6 cold work steel: D3-class carbide volume with tungsten added for air hardening and superior dimensional stability. It is the European precision-gauge and die counterpart to the American D-family.

Hardness58–62 HRC
DIN1.2436
AISID6
JISSKD2
CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

ElementContent (%)
C2.00–2.30
Si0.10–0.40
Mn0.30–0.60
Cr11.00–13.00
W0.60–0.80

Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.

Properties

Delivery conditionAnnealed
Hardness (hardened)58–62 HRC
Density7.80 g/cm³
Dimensional stabilityExcellent (air hardening, W-bearing)

Heat treatment

Harden 950–980 °C air; temper 180–250 °C, double temper for gauges.

Equivalent grades

StandardDesignation
din1.2436
aisiD6
jisSKD2
gbCr12W (near)

Compare side by side: 1.2436 (D6) vs D4 · 1.2436 (D6) vs D3 · 1.2436 (D6) vs D7

Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.

Applications & Processing

Applications: Precision blanking dies, gauges, thread rolling dies, deep drawing dies, long-wear punches.

Processing: Air hardening minimizes movement; grinding is slow due to carbide content. Toughness is low, as with all 12% Cr steels.

FAQ

D6 (1.2436) vs D2 (1.2379)?
D6 has more carbon and tungsten, air hardens with less distortion and holds size better in gauges; D2 is tougher and cheaper for general blanking.

Need 1.2436 (D6) from stock?

Steel.Wiki is sponsored by Shenzhen NewAsia Special Steel (Nasteel), a special-steel stockholder in Shenzhen stocking mold, tool and alloy steels with EN 10204 3.1 certification.

Ask for a quotationVisit Nasteel

Source: EN ISO 4957 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.