A7
Data under reviewA7 packs very high carbon with about 4% vanadium, forming a dense population of hard vanadium carbides. It sits between D2 and the high-speed steels in abrasive wear resistance, for the most punishing cold-work applications.
Chemical composition
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 2.00–2.85 |
| Si | ≤0.50 |
| Mn | 0.20–0.80 |
| Cr | 5.00–5.75 |
| Mo | 0.90–1.40 |
| V | 3.20–4.40 |
Weight percent, per the governing standard ranges. Actual values per heat are on the mill certificate.
Properties
| Delivery condition | Annealed |
| Hardness (hardened) | 58–64 HRC |
| Density | 7.80 g/cm³ |
| Wear resistance | Extreme (vanadium carbides) |
Heat treatment
Harden 940–980 °C air; temper 200–290 °C, double temper.
Equivalent grades
| Standard | Designation |
|---|---|
| din | — (1.2431 family) |
| aisi | A7 |
| gb | Cr5Mo1V3 (near) |
Compare side by side: A7 vs D7 · A7 vs D2
Equivalents overlap in chemistry and use but are not always identical — see our equivalents guide before substituting in certified designs.
Applications & Processing
Applications: Brick and tile dies, powder compaction tools, sand slingers, dies for abrasive filled plastics, shear blades for abrasive stock.
Processing: Very difficult to machine and grind — diamond/CBN wheels recommended. Keep sections simple; toughness is low.
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Ask for a quotationVisit NasteelSource: ASTM A681 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.