Grade H11/ 1.2343 in DIN standards, is a premium hot-work tool steel known for its exceptional toughness, thermal shock resistance, and high-temperature strength. The ESR (Electro-Slag Remelted) version of H11 offers superior cleanliness, improved microstructure, and enhanced mechanical performance, making it ideal for demanding tooling applications. H11 belongs to the chromium-molybdenum-vanadium family of hot-work steels and is recognized for its ability to withstand extreme heat cycles, mechanical shock, and abrasive working conditions without cracking or premature wear.

Key Properties of H11/ 1.2343 ESR

1. Exceptional Hot Strength

H11 ESR maintains high hardness and strength even at 600–650°C, making it ideal for continuous hot-working operations.

2. Superior Thermal Shock Resistance

Resists cracking under rapid heating and cooling—critical for die-casting molds, forging dies, and extrusion tools.

3. High Toughness & Ductility

Among hot-work steels, H11 ranks high in toughness. The ESR variant further improves anti-cracking performance and internal cleanliness.

4. Excellent Hardenability & Uniformity

Achieves uniform hardness throughout large or complex tools. Typical hardness: 44–52 HRC (after heat treatment).

5. Good Wear Resistance

Chromium and vanadium provide resistance to abrasion, erosion, and mechanical wear in hot-working conditions.

6. Improved Purity (ESR Grade)

The ESR process removes impurities, providing benefits like:
a. higher polishability
b. better fatigue resistance
c. reduced tool failure
d. longer die life
Ideal for premium mold and die manufacturing.

Common Applications

H11/ 1.2343 ESR is widely used in hot-work molding, pressure die-casting, and high-stress tooling. Applications include:
1. High-pressure die casting dies
2. Hot forging dies & die inserts
3. Aluminum extrusion dies
4. Die holders and bolsters
5. Shear blades for hot cutting
6. Hot punches and mandrels
7. Plastic mould tools requiring high toughness
8. Tools exposed to high thermal cycling
9. Aerospace components

Summary

H11/ 1.2343 ESR is a world-class hot-work tool steel designed for extreme working conditions. Its combination of high-temperature strength, toughness, thermal shock resistance, and ESR-level purity makes it a preferred choice for die-casting, forging, and extrusion tooling. The ESR variant ensures exceptional reliability, long tool life, and superior performance in precision molds and hot-work dies.