SKD61 (AISI H13) Tool Steel Properties, Applications, and Machining Solutions

SKD61 Steel Properties and Applications, and Belinker’s Machining & Supply Capabilities

Hello, this is Belinker, a manufacturing company based in Korea.

In the manufacturing industry, tool steel is a key material that directly impacts product quality and production efficiency. Among them, SKD61 is a representative hot work tool steel, known for maintaining strength at high temperatures and resisting thermal shock. For this reason, it is widely used in die casting, extrusion, and hot forging processes.

Belinker Manufacturing, a Korea-based company, supplies SKD61 tailored to the requirements of each project. With extensive experience in CNC machining, MCT, EDM, and grinding, we support even high-difficulty machining with precision and reliability. In this article, we will explore the main properties and applications of SKD61, and share how Belinker delivers differentiated expertise in machining and supply.

About Belinker Manufacturing

Belinker Manufacturing is a manufacturing company based in Korea, and a trusted partner to leading enterprises such as SeAH Steel, SeAH Changwon Integrated Special Steel, SeAH Besteel, Hankook Tire affiliates, Samyoung Electronics, and UNICK (automotive components).
We provide reliable supply and machining of high-performance steels, strengthening supply chain stability and reducing costs for our clients.

What is SKD61?

SKD61 is a hot work tool steel defined by Japanese JIS standards. Its equivalents are AISI H13 (U.S.) and DIN 1.2344 (Germany).

• Classification: Hot work tool steel

• Typical Chemical Composition:

  • Carbon (C): 0.32–0.45%

  • Silicon (Si): 0.80–1.20%

  • Chromium (Cr): 4.5–5.5%

  • Molybdenum (Mo): 1.0–1.5%

  • Vanadium (V): 0.8–1.2%

This alloy composition gives SKD61 its outstanding high-temperature strength, thermal fatigue resistance, and oxidation resistance.

Key Properties of SKD61

1. High-Temperature Strength

   • Maintains mechanical strength above 600℃

   • Suitable for extrusion and die casting dies

2. Thermal Fatigue Resistance

   • Resists cracking under repeated heating and cooling cycles

   • Extends die and tool service life

3. Oxidation Resistance

   • Resists oxidation and decarburization under high heat

   • Ensures durability even during long exposure to high temperatures

4. Uniform Structure & Machinability

   • Heat-treated for a stable and uniform microstructure

   • Easier to machine compared to some other hot work steels

Common Applications of SKD61

• Die Casting Dies: For aluminum, magnesium, and zinc alloys under high pressure

• Extrusion Dies: For aluminum and copper extrusion, as well as plastic molding

• Hot Forging Dies: For automotive and machinery components

• Other High-Temperature Components:

  • Hot shear blades

  • High-temperature rollers

  • Structural components exposed to heat

In short, SKD61 is a proven material for long service life in high-temperature, high-pressure conditions.

Machining Considerations for SKD61

Through years of experience machining SKD61, Belinker has gained valuable know-how:

1. Cutting Machinability

   • High hardness and heat resistance cause rapid tool wear

   • Carbide and coated tools are essential

2. Heat Treatment Management

   • Pre-hardening before machining provides stability

   • Dimensional distortion may occur after high-temperature treatment, requiring correction

3. Grinding

   • Risk of heat-induced cracks during grinding

   • Requires proper coolant application for stability

4. Cost

   • Higher material cost than general-purpose steels

   • However, improved tool life reduces total cost of ownership

SKD61 vs. SKD11

👉 SKD11 is optimized for low-temperature, high-hardness applications, while SKD61 excels in high-temperature, thermal-resistant environments.

Belinker’s SKD61 Supply & Machining Capabilities

Belinker Manufacturing delivers more than just material supply—we provide end-to-end solutions for SKD61 projects:

1. Material Supply

   • Stable sourcing of SKD61 blocks from domestic and international steelmakers

   • Flexible procurement based on project budget and lead time

2. Machining Expertise

   • CNC, MCT, EDM, and grinding with precision tolerance up to ±0.01mm

   • Proven experience in high-complexity machining of SKD61

3. Quality Control

   • Ultrasonic testing, hardness inspection, and crack detection

   • Process planning that considers heat treatment deformation

4. Industry Experience

   • Projects in automotive, aerospace, and plant sectors

   • Tailored supply and machining strategies for cost reduction and shorter lead times

Conclusion

SKD61 (AISI H13) is a leading hot work tool steel optimized for high-temperature tooling and dies.
Its superior thermal fatigue resistance and high-temperature strength make it indispensable for die casting, extrusion, and hot forging. However, due to its machining challenges, success requires a partner with expertise and advanced capabilities.

Belinker Manufacturing brings extensive experience in the supply and precision machining of SKD61 and other alloy tool steels. We ensure your projects proceed smoothly with optimal solutions tailored to your needs.

📩 Inquiries: support@belinker.co.kr
🌐 Website: https://belinker.co.kr