L2

Data under review

L2 is a low-alloy special-purpose tool steel supplied in several carbon bands matched to section size and duty. Its Cr-V chemistry gives better hardenability and wear than plain carbon W steels at modest cost.

Hardness55–62 HRC (grade band dependent)

DIN— (1.2210 family, near)

AISIL2

GBCrV (near)

CategoryTool Steel

Chemical composition

Element	Content (%)
C	0.45–1.00
Si	0.10–0.50
Mn	0.10–0.90
Cr	0.70–1.20
V	0.10–0.30

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

Properties

Delivery condition	Annealed
Hardness (hardened)	55–62 HRC (grade band dependent)
Density	7.85 g/cm³

Heat treatment

Harden 790–870 °C oil (temperature follows the carbon band); temper 175–290 °C.

Equivalent grades

Standard	Designation
din	— (1.2210 family, near)
aisi	L2
gb	CrV (near)

Compare side by side: L2 vs L6 · L2 vs O1

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

Applications & Processing

Applications: Spindles, collets, arbors, cams, forming rolls, low-duty blanking tools.

Processing: Specify the carbon band when ordering — the wide A681 window is intentional, and mills supply sub-bands. Oil quench distortion is moderate.

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Source: ASTM A681 published ranges · Last updated 2026-11-03. Data is indicative — verify critical values against the governing standard and mill certificate before use.