Grades · Tool Steel · 3Cr2W8V

3Cr2W8V

Data verified

3Cr2W8V is the GB/T 1299 tungsten hot work steel, the Chinese designation of the H21 family. It remains widely stocked in China for brass extrusion and hot die applications despite its brittleness versus H13.

Hardness38–48 HRC
DIN1.2581
AISIH21
JISSKD5
CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

ElementContent (%)
C0.30–0.40
Si0.20–0.40
Mn≤0.40
Cr2.20–2.70
W7.50–9.00
V0.20–0.50

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

Properties

Delivery conditionAnnealed
Working hardness38–48 HRC
Density8.20 g/cm³
Hot hardnessHigh (8% tungsten)

Heat treatment

Harden 1070–1130 °C oil/air (GB practice); temper 550–650 °C, double temper.

Equivalent grades

StandardDesignation
din1.2581
aisiH21
jisSKD5
gb3Cr2W8V

Compare side by side: 3Cr2W8V vs H21 · 3Cr2W8V vs H23

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Brass extrusion dies, hot forging inserts, die casting dies for copper alloys, dummy blocks.

Processing: Preheat dies thoroughly and avoid water shock in service; Chinese mills commonly supply it annealed as round bar and forged blocks.

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Source: GB/T 1299 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.