Grades · Tool Steel · DC53

DC53

Data verified

DC53 is Daido’s improved cold work steel: a rebalanced D2-type chemistry (less carbon and chromium, more molybdenum) that reaches 60–64 HRC with roughly double the toughness of D2 and excellent high-temperature tempering response.

Hardness60–64 HRC
DIN— (modified 1.2379 type)
AISI— (modified D2 type)
JIS— (Daido proprietary)
CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

ElementContent (%)
C0.90–1.10
Si0.80–1.20
Mn0.20–0.50
Cr7.80–8.50
Mo1.80–2.20
V0.20–0.40

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

Properties

Delivery conditionAnnealed
Hardness (hardened)60–64 HRC
Density7.70 g/cm³
Toughness≈2× D2 (maker data)

Heat treatment

Harden 1020–1050 °C air; temper 520–540 °C for 62–64 HRC with best toughness.

Equivalent grades

StandardDesignation
din— (modified 1.2379 type)
aisi— (modified D2 type)
jis— (Daido proprietary)

Compare side by side: DC53 vs D2 · DC53 vs SKD11

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: High-precision punches and dies, cold forging tools, wire-EDM parts, applications where D2 chips.

Processing: Better machinability and EDM behavior than D2; high-temperature temper removes the brittle EDM white layer effectively.

FAQ

Why is DC53 more expensive than D2?
It is a proprietary mill grade with tighter processing; the premium pays back where die chipping or EDM cracking scrap D2 tools.

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Source: Daido Steel published data · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.